Revitalizing the Appeal of Helsinki's City Center

Helsinki's city center sees approximately 80,000 fewer daily visitors compared to 2019. Several factors contribute to this decline: the rise of remote work, the reduction of certain tourist groups due to Russia's war of aggression, and the growing popularity of online shopping. This decline weakens local businesses and makes it harder to maintain services. If the trend is not reversed, it could lead to a downward spiral that becomes increasingly difficult to break. Addressing this issue must be a priority in the upcoming council term.

While we cannot change all underlying factors, much can be done. Helsinki's city center must be attractive and compelling for both residents and tourists. When planning infrastructure and urban spaces, we must consider how these developments will enhance the vibrancy and appeal of the area. The city center needs spaces where people, both locals and visitors, want to spend time. It must be a cohesive environment that offers services, sights, and experiences. Revitalization does not always require new construction. Existing areas can also be reimagined and repurposed.

The event industry plays a crucial role in the vitality and attractiveness of the city center. Having worked in three different event venues, two in the city center and one nearby, I have seen firsthand the impact of events on the local economy. The smallest of these venues hosted 700 visitors, while the largest accommodated 3 000. Since 2019, all three have ceased operations, partly due to the pandemic and partly due to space constraints. The City of Helsinki must ensure the availability of event venues, allowing private operators to run event businesses year-round. This is not just about concerts and festivals but also corporate events, holiday parties, and summer gatherings. These events bring people into the city, boost its economy, and create jobs. A taxi driver once told me that a single seminar kept him busy the entire day—just one example of how events support multiple industries.

The number of residents in the city center also impacts its vitality. The city must promote residential living in the area and ensure that it remains an attractive place to live. Additionally, accessibility is key. The city center must be easy to reach by foot, bike, public transport, and car. To safeguard service availability, efficient solutions for maintenance and delivery traffic must also be ensured.

Helsinki's city center needs investments that will restore its liveliness and appeal. The state of the city center affects not only the surrounding districts but the entire city.