The reconstruction of Varraku Street, which began in April 2024, is now complete, transforming the street into a safer and more pedestrian-friendly space.

The new design enhances traffic safety, with new pedestrian and cycling paths providing a secure environment for students of nearby activity schools and all other road users on Varraku Street.

“When we build cycling paths, children gain the opportunity to travel independently to school and extracurricular activities, freeing parents from having to play the role of a taxi driver,” said Tallinn's Deputy Mayor, Pärtel-Peeter Pere.

The section of Varraku Street between Punane Street and Vilisuu Street now features a 1+2 lane configuration, while the stretch from Vilisuu Street to the Laagna tee viaduct has been designed as a 1+1 lane configuration. Bus stops have been moved into open pull-out bays, and safety islands have been installed at the intersections with Vilisuu and Punane streets to make crossing safer.

As part of landscaping efforts, the street was lined with silver lindens, black pines, and common oaks. Planting areas were created with Siberian dogwoods, Thunberg barberries, and other shrub species. Additionally, new urban furniture (trash bins, benches, and bike racks) was installed, and modern street lighting was added, making the area safer and more comfortable as a public space.

The construction work is now complete, with the installation of bus stop shelters scheduled for mid-December.

“The reconstructed section of Varraku Street serves not only residential buildings but also several child-focused institutions. Hundreds of children and young people already visit Tondiraba Hobby School, Lasnamäe Music School, Lasnamäe Youth Center, and Lasnamäe Badminton Hall daily. In the future, this route will also cater to the clients of a planned football hall. The new pedestrian and cycling paths significantly improve their safety,” said Julianna Jurtšenko, District Governor of Lasnamäe.

The reconstruction was commissioned by Tallinn’s Urban Environment and Public Works Department and carried out by AS TREF Nord. The new design was created by T-Model OÜ. The total cost of the construction was €1.3 million, mostly funded by the City of Tallinn, with €103,000 contributed by co-financier AS Utilitas Tallinn.

Photos of the updated street: Renovated Varraku Street in Lasnamäe (December 2, 2024) | Flickr