HSL launches a communications campaign on the Vantaa bus network redesign

The Vantaa bus network will be totally reorganized in August 2015. In addition to changes to routes and timetables, most of the bus routes will be renumbered. Works to replace bus stop signs have already started. HSL launches a communications campaign on the changes in Vantaa on 11 May. The aim is to encourage residents and those working in Vantaa to prepare for the changes in advance.

 "The planning of the new bus network started in spring 2011. Residents’ comments were invited on the draft plans before the final plan was completed. The Ring Rail Line and the new bus network form an integrated whole," says the Head of Route Network and Timetable Planning Arttu Kuukankorpi.

The aim was to create a clear, easy to understand route network. The number of different route versions has been cut and services have been planned to provide regular headways. The number of bus routes will decrease from about 80 to about 60. Some of the current routes will be merged and five routes will be withdrawn. In practice, none of the routes will remain unchanged as in addition to route and timetable changes, the routes will be renumbered.

“Bus routes will be renumbered in Vantaa this year. Next year routes will be renumbered in Espoo when the West Metro starts operating. Duplicate route numbers in different municipalities are eliminated. The changes are carried out in phases across the entire HSL area,” says Arttu Kuukankorpi.

The Ring Rail Line will provide a crosstown transport link between West and East Vantaa. Consequently, crosstown bus services are reduced. Also bus services to Helsinki Airport will be withdrawn with the exception of route 615. The role of the route 615 will change; it will no longer be an airport bus but a regular regional route. Kivistö will get a totally new feeder bus network in August. Trunk route 560 running from East Helsinki to Myyrmäki in Vantaa will complement the Vantaa bus network.

The changes to the bus network will take effect on 10 August.  

A bulletin on the Ring Rail Line and Vantaa route network redesign is delivered to all households in Vantaa on 13 May. The bulletin includes a map and descriptions of the bus routes. At the same time, HSL opens a new online service at hsl.fi/tulevatreitit. The services allows you to search bus routes from 10 August by entering the departure and end points of a route. The service also provides information about operating hours and frequencies. The service is first released as a beta version.