The bridge’s distinctive design features a 135-metre-high, diamond-shaped pylon as its central structural component. This component alone took approximately two years of continuous concrete casting.
The central pylon supports two main spans, each measuring 260 metres, with a fan of stay cables radiating from its apex to support the bridge deck. The main bridge combines two access bridges, which are continuous composite beam bridges.
“The aim was to make the bridge light and airy, so that the impact on the landscape would be as small as possible,” said Sami Niemelä, business area director at WSP.
Kruunuvuorensilta has also been designed to last more than 200 years. This impacted material and structural solutions, with particular consideration for durability and maintainability. According to Knight Architects, the project included extensive wind and environmental modelling to inform the detailed design of parapets, wind barriers and bridge furniture.
WSP said that all of these considerations resulted in a project that took a total of 100,000 hours of design work to bring together.
The bridge’s stay cables are designed to remain in constant slight motion in the wind to help prevent ice formation. Enclosing the cables in textured plastic sheaths also helps reduce ice formation as it causes ice to break off into fine particles.
The bridge is now open to pedestrians and cyclists, with tram services expected to open in early 2027.
“Kruunuvuorensilta Bridge is the new, unique and exciting landmark for Helsinki – a sight that will draw visitors from near and far. The new bridge reflects our commitment to sustainable solutions and embraces Helsinki’s unique maritime setting,” said Daniel Sazonov, the mayor of Helsinki, who attended the bridge’s official opening.
While the bridge is open, there is still some finishing work that needs to be completed including the installation of cameras, a weather station and minor electrical work. Tram test runs will also continue throughout 2026.