Early opening of connection to Hailuoto causes financial difficulties in Finland
In Finland, the municipality of the island of Hailuoto has faced additional expenses after the early opening of a permanent transport connection to the mainland. The connection opened on June 29, four months ahead of schedule, at the height of the summer tourist season. According to the municipality's assessment, this has led to temporary financial difficulties. YLE News reports.
Traffic flow increased severalfold
Before the permanent connection opened, the average traffic volume on the island was about 740 vehicles per day. After its opening, it increased to an average of 3,125 vehicles per day, with the peak reaching 3,840. Slightly more than 900 people live on Hailuoto.
After the connection appeared, the island quickly became a popular destination for visitors. The organizers of the Bättre Folk festival had to revise the traffic scheme, and traffic controllers were deployed on the island to keep the situation under control.
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New expenses and investments
Due to the increased need for parking, the municipality set up a temporary parking area costing €20,000. Another €3,000 was spent by the municipality and the Northern Finland Vitality Centre on paid traffic control.
Spending on waste removal and public toilets increased by €20,000, while spending on tourist information services rose by €8,000. Due to heavier traffic, the authorities also plan to improve streets, build a pedestrian and bicycle path, and renovate the Marjaniemi area.
The estimated need for future investments is about €1.5 million, while all of Hailuoto's expenses last year amounted to approximately €5 million. The municipality plans to apply for a discretionary increase in the state subsidy and has created a working group to improve its financial situation. The Hailuoto municipal council will consider the matter on September 15.
