The E18 Development
Strategy
E18 - THE ROLE AND DEVELOPMENT PRINCIPLES OF
The transport system of the Nordic Triangle with its roads, railways, ports and airports is a central part of the transport system that serves the whole country, southern Finland and many cities. Its international importance is high as it serves the bulk of Finland's exports, imports and international passenger transport. The Nordic Triangle is the most significant connection between the EU and Russia and an EU-prioritised scheme in the Trans-European Transport Networks
(TEN).
The E18 is a central element of the Nordic Triangle. The need for intermodality and the development of port, airport and freight station connections are highlighted in its role. The development of the Nordic Triangle supports regional and local programmes of economic development. Reliability, functionality, traffic safety and environmental values are emphasised in planning and design. In addition, the roadside landscape and the high-quality design of the road environment as well as the arrangement of the telematic and other services for road users make their special
demands.
THE GOALS AND MEANS OF IMPLEMENTATION
The target is a high-quality transport system with its terminals, border crossings, services and environment, serving the whole society. The goal is to construct the motorway connection Turku - Helsinki - Hamina by 2015 so that the sections Turku - Helsinki and that of Hamina are completed by 2008 and the section Helsinki - Hamina in 2015. Additionally, the Hamina - Vaalimaa section will be upgraded into a motorway in stages following the demand of
traffic.
The projects will be realised as sufficiently large aggregates in order to ensure their economy and efficiency. The lifespan costs are minimised by applying new selection procedures. In order to facilitate funding, partnerships with the private sector, TEN funding from the EU and, if necessary, loans from the European Investment bank will be sought. Planning and design will progress so as to maintain preparedness for implementation on a high
level.
Long-term commitment to the Development Programme of the E18 will be sought from the Government and Parliament in the programme of the next government and in state
budgets.
IMPACTS
The development of the Nordic Triangle and the E18 is a response to societal and transport demand. They promote Finland's exports, imports, competitiveness and employment. The development of the E18 will put into practice transport policy goals of the MinTC and support the fulfilment of the land use development needs emerging from the growth of cities and the goals expressed by the Regional Councils, municipalities and business life of the impact area. Developing the E18 improves traffic safety and is profitable.
Commitment to the Implementation Programme would remove the uncertainty that hinders the realisation of the land use and other investments related to the E18. As the objective is the construction of a motorway, only measures improving safety are carried out on the existing
road.
| 