Destia signs for the second partial order of the Vantaa Light Rail project in Finland
Destia, Colas' Finnish subsidiary, signed the second partial order of the Vantaa light rail project as part of the alliance responsible for its construction. This contract represents a value of approximately €200 million* for Destia. It covers the remaining section of the western line to be built in Vantaa. Light rail operations will start in late 2029.
The total value of the project (phases 1 and 2) is estimated at approximately €750 million, with an overall share of around €433 million for Destia. The first phase, launched in November 2025, marked the start of the construction works. With an estimated duration of four years, the project is led by the City of Vantaa, alongside the Helsinki Region Environmental Services Authority (HSY) and Capital Region Urban Transport Ltd, representing the City of Helsinki.
This second contract covers the rest of the construction works of the tramway’s (western section 12 kilometers), as well as utility network and electrification works. The pace of construction will intensify in spring and summer, with the continuation of complex structures and temporary traffic adjustments to enable the development of the tramway platform and public spaces.
"This tramway is a major urban initiative that fully leverages Destia’s expertise in rail infrastructure within complex environments. Work is progressing at a steady pace, and we are proud to contribute to the development of sustainable public transportation that serves the residents", says Heikki Haasmaa, President and CEO of Destia.
The Vantaa tramway is a “light metro” line that will connect the easternmost districts of the city to the rail network and provide easy access to Helsinki Airport. Delivered by two alliances, it will sustainably strengthen mobility, the quality of public transport, and the attractiveness of the area, and forms part of a major urban development program designed to support long-term population and economic growth. The city’s objective is to attract 60,000 new residents and create 30,000 new jobs along the route by 2050.
"This new public transport construction secured by the Colas Group in Finland once again demonstrates the expertise of Destia's teams and our Group's ability to deliver major infrastructure projects in the countries where we operate", says Francis Grass, Executive Vice President EMEA (Europe, Middle East, Africa) and Specialties at Colas.
Upon completion of the project, Vantaa will become the fourth city in Finland to have a tramway network.
* backlog: Q2 2026
