The City of Helsinki's "Summer Streets" initiative in Kallio, which transformed urban streets into more pedestrian-friendly zones, is set to return next year.
City officials said that while most feedback from residents has focused on challenges like limited parking and changes to traffic flow, the overall response has been positive.
"Helsinki residents have been very pleased. There have even been requests to bring summer streets to other parts of the city," said project engineer Pirita Ilmonen from the City of Helsinki.
Yle News reporter Matthew Schilke asked locals what they thought about the summer pilot project.
The street design was developed in collaboration with local residents and businesses. As part of the plan, parking spaces were replaced with plants, furniture, and light structures that can be easily removed for winter.
New seating was added on Porthaninkatu, with plants and furniture along Fleminginkatu and near Karhupuisto park. An event stage opened by Kallio Library, and upgrades were made to squares around Kallio Church, Torkkelinaukio, Ympyrätalo, and Kolmas linja.
"The plan is to recreate the summer streets in a similar form next year, but that will be confirmed in the fall."
According to Ilmonen, no major changes are expected for next year, but lessons will be learned from this summer.
"The summer shows what works and what may need to be adjusted."
The project cost the City of Helsinki about 1.5 million euros.
