The ice road to Hailuoto, a crucial seasonal link for residents and tourists, opens today for the final time, marking the end of an era as a permanent connection is planned for completion by next winter. The route, which covers approximately ten kilometers with eight kilometers on the ice, has a weight limit of 3.5 tons and a speed limit of 50 km/h. After today, this traditional ice route will no longer be accessible as the new infrastructure takes over offering a more reliable connection during the colder months.

Juha Toppi, CEO of Touhu Services, confirms that the estimated opening time for the ice road is noon today, allowing access from Oulu to Hailuoto for one last time. This development highlights the changing dynamics of transportation in the region, as the ice road has not been officially recognized in recent years. The new connection is set to enhance safety and accessibility for all, with authorities actively monitoring conditions and safety measures on the road as it transitions from seasonal to permanent.

Heino Heikkinen, head of the planning unit at the North Ostrobothnia Centre for Economic Development, emphasizes the importance of this final opening. The transition from an ice road to a stable, year-round connection signifies both progress and a shift in the local transportation landscape, underscoring the necessity of adapting to changing weather patterns and enhancing safety and accessibility for the residents and visitors of Hailuoto. This modern approach aims to ensure connectivity while reducing reliance on seasonal weather-dependent routes.