Tartu plans new walking and cycling bridge across Emajõgi

Tartu is planning a new bridge for pedestrians and cyclists across the Emajõgi River, linking the Kvissentali and Supilinn neighbourhoods, ERR reports. The project is intended to ease pressure on daily travel as new housing brings more residents to the city.

More than 20 apartment buildings are being developed in Kvissentali, between Raadi and Tähtvere, and could bring a few thousand new residents. Real estate agent Diana Hein of Domus said safe routes would let children travel independently to school, clubs and sports activities, reducing the need for parents to drive them.

The city is planning a nearly 100-metre-long bridge, called the Tuglase pedestrian and cycling bridge, for completion by 2030. It is also intended to help prevent congestion on Narva maantee. No homes are planned immediately beside the bridge, and the green riverbank will be preserved.

Deputy Mayor Kertu Vuks said an earlier proposal to build a bridge for motor traffic had faced strong criticism from the Supilinn and Tähtvere communities. The planned pedestrian and cycling bridge is also expected to improve access between university campuses and a sports park on the opposite bank. Hein said the connection has already been an important factor for students and rental-property investors.

The bridge and an extension of Ujula Street are expected to cost a total of 13 million euros. Tartu is seeking a grant covering 70 percent of the cost through the Ministry of Climate’s sustainable mobility programme. Vuks said the project depends on securing the funding, as the city would find it difficult to pay for an investment of this size from its own budget alone.

The funding decision is expected early next year. If the application succeeds, the bridge must be completed by 2030.