Norway’s Fyllingsdalstunnelen: The World’s Longest Bicycle Tunnel

A Unique Infrastructure for Cyclists and Pedestrians

In most cities, when officials explore methods to make their streets safer for cyclists and pedestrians, they usually propose installing protected bike lanes or closing down a street to vehicle traffic. But Bergen, Norway is different. The city is preparing to open a 1.8-mile tunnel designed specifically for car-free transportation. The Fyllingsdalstunnelen will connect a residential area, Fyllingsdalen, with the center of the southwest Norwegian city. It is set to open on April 15th.

Faster Commute Times and Enhanced Safety

According to Euronews, the Fyllingsdalstunnelen will reduce a typical 40-minute journey to just 25 minutes. While it might seem like a long time to spend in cramped confines underground, the tunnel is designed with safety and comfort in mind. It is well-lit with colorful lighting fixtures, beautifully decorated walls, security cameras, and emergency phones every 800 feet. The entire length is also heated to 44 degrees, which is particularly important during Norway’s winters. Moreover, the tunnel features rest stops inside, so there’s no need to worry about walking or cycling for 45 minutes continuously.

A Unique Opportunity Turned into Reality

The Fyllingsdalstunnelen’s construction was partly born out of a unique opportunity. It was originally meant to serve as an emergency tunnel for a parallel light rail tunnel, but plans were expanded to allow for public use. Project manager Arild Tveit said to Euronews, “Basically, it is an escape tunnel for the tram. But then there were wise minds who said that it is possible to cycle through this tunnel as well. By creating a walkway here, it is also possible to exercise… So it is public health in every meter of this tunnel.”

Environmental Promise and Future Possibilities

Bergen’s state-supported Miljøløftet, or Environmental Promise in English, agency funded the construction of the tunnel. The organization hopes that this infrastructure would encourage more people to cycle or walk over driving, reducing emissions, pollution, and traffic.

When the Fyllingsdalstunnelen opens on April 15th, it will become the world’s longest purpose-built cycling tunnel, surpassing the United States’ Snoqualmie Tunnel, which measures 2.2 miles. The Snoqualmie Tunnel was built in 1914 for the Milwaukee Road, a defunct railroad, and was later converted into a rail trail, but it wasn’t purpose-built for cyclists and pedestrians.

This ambitious project sets an example for other cities worldwide to create infrastructure tailored to cyclists and pedestrians. The Fyllingsdalstunnelen is an example of a project that is both innovative and practical, and it could provide a blueprint for similar efforts around the world.