The Finance Committee of the Parliament proposes an appropriation of €250,000 to the Finnish Transport Infrastructure Agency for studying a fixed link on the Helsinki–Turku–Stockholm route. Finland needs stronger western connections to secure economic growth and security of supply. The study will strengthen the overall picture and is a natural continuation of the work already carried out during this government term on the fixed link across the Kvarken and the conversion of the rail gauge in northern Finland. The focus of EU transport policy is shifting towards cross-border connections, and the study project supports Finland’s strategic position.
“It is excellent that the committee recognizes the national significance of the Helsinki–Turku–Stockholm connection. Studying the fixed link creates a knowledge base for strategic choices that are crucial for Finland’s future, which strengthens the competitiveness of the entire country,” commends Regional Director Jyri Arponen.
The proposal is part of the committee’s supplementary proposals to the state budget for 2026. As part of the budget process, the committee traditionally proposes additional appropriations from the so-called undivided reserve of Parliament, which is used for, among other things, minor transport repair projects and other project-based initiatives. The final decision on granting the appropriations will be made later by Parliament as part of the budget process.
The Regional Council of Southwest Finland has proposed the initiation of a study on the fixed link.
“The connection from Turku to Stockholm is historically and commercially the most important, as well as the most direct and safest route to Europe. Studying the cross-border connection is in line with EU policy and supports the funding prospects for national projects. Our goal is for the route to be included in the next national Transport 12 plan and the TEN-T regulation update,” states Director of Advocacy Malla Rannikko-Laine.
Southwest Finland will also receive funding for health innovations. Funding of €70,000 is allocated for launching the Women’s Health Hub Finland network, coordinated by Business Turku. The initial funding for the hub enables the establishment of a nationally and internationally competitive cluster, the piloting of new solutions, and the development of innovations suitable for export.
In addition, Southwest Finland will receive additional funding for, among other things, transport and the development of shooting ranges. A total of €830,000 is granted for regional road projects, including road surfacing in Rymättylä, Taivassalo, and Vehmaa, the construction of wildlife fences on Highway 1 in the Paimionjoki valley, improved lighting on Main Road 52, and the construction of a cycling and pedestrian path in Kimitoön. Among the region’s shooting ranges, support will be provided to the shooting ranges in Lieto, Loimaa, and Naantali’s Nikulanvuori. In addition, individual grants are being awarded to, for example, Åbo Svenska Teater, the Agricultural Museum Sarka, Åbolands Brandkårsförbund, the Naantali Music Festival, and Keep the Archipelago Tidy Association.
