Speed cushions added to three school routes in Tampere

Busy crossings on school routes

In Etelä-Hervanta, speed cushions were installed at the pedestrian crossings on Arkkitehdinkatu at the intersections with Valtaraitti and Ahvenisraitti. In Rahola, a speed cushion was added at the intersection of Vanha Kirkkotie and Korvenkatu. In Annala, the measure was implemented on Hikivuorenkatu near Karosenpuisto.

All three locations are well-used crossing points for pedestrians and cyclists and form part of recommended routes to nearby schools.

Improving safety by lowering speeds

The speed limit on all streets selected for the measures is 30 km/h. However, the City of Tampere's traffic speed measurements have shown repeated speeding at these locations. The city has also received feedback from residents about traffic safety concerns.

For example, on Vanha Kirkkotie, the V85 speed, meaning the speed below which 85 percent of vehicles travel, was measured at 46 km/h in 2025 before the speed cushion was installed. Tampere's traffic-calming assessment process identified a need to improve safety at pedestrian crossings at all three sites.

Funded through the Get Finland Moving programme

The speed cushions were funded through the Finnish Government's The Get Finland Moving programme. The programme aims to enhance the safety of school journeys and promote active travel to and from school. In addition, pupils at Etelä-Hervanta and Rahola schools have taken part in lessons promoting active school travel.

Schools in Tampere encourage children and young people to travel to and from school independently by walking or cycling whenever possible. Unnecessary car journeys on short school trips and drop-off traffic around schools can increase traffic risks and create hazardous situations. Active school travel adds physical activity to everyday routines while helping children develop the skills and confidence needed for independent mobility.