SWOT: Transport

Strengths

• Clean and efficient public transport system with international reputation.
• Good park and ride system.
• Low ticket prices on public transport.
• Expanding commuter rail and metro system.
• Public transport system increasingly running with environmentally sound vehicles.
• Extensive cycle network.
• Metropolitan area has good international transport links for passengers and cargo.
• Good rail links through Russia to China and the Pacific Coast.
  

Weaknesses

• Energy consumption per capita on transport twice that of European average.
• Low population density makes average journeys longer.
• Public transport weak in cross city directions resulting in increased traffic congestion.
• Rush hour congestion in suburbs.
• Sea lanes freeze in winter.
  

Opportunities

• Intensified urban structure would make public transport provision easier to provide.
• Opportunity to be a worldwide leader in the implementation of sustainable public transport.
• Bridge link to Tallinn would make overland link to the heart of Europe and symbolically link Helsinki to Europe.
  

Threats

• Population growth leading to increased congestion and vehicle emissions.
• Underinvestment in public transport.