Tallinn to restore two lanes each way at Hipodrome intersection

Traffic at Tallinn’s Hipodrome intersection will return to two lanes in each direction by August 31, ERR reported. One lane will be added, replacing the current two-lanes-in-one-direction and one-lane-in-the-other arrangement.

Tallinn Deputy Mayor Joel Jesse said the change would ease the intersection’s capacity constraints, but construction in the area would continue and traffic arrangements would remain different from normal.

“Traffic volumes across Tallinn will increase with the start of the school year, and major traffic jams and longer travel times may still occur at the Hipodrome intersection during peak hours,” Jesse said. He urged people to plan their journeys in advance and, where possible, use alternative routes and public transport.

Footpath construction is continuing on Paldiski Road between Merelahe Road and Endla Street, with some traffic lanes also partially closed. Jesse urged drivers not to use public transport lanes so buses can stay as close as possible to schedule.

After September 1, work will continue on the outbound side of Paldiski Road between Endla Street and Mooni Street. That section is expected to reopen at the end of November.

Work on the inbound side will begin early next year, with the entire construction project scheduled for completion by the end of August 2027.

The completed infrastructure will include separated cycle paths, green islands and new lighting on Paldiski Road, as well as a new crossing for pedestrians and cyclists at the intersection. The existing avenue on Paldiski Road will be preserved, and a left-turn option from Hipodrome Street towards the city centre will be added.