Subsea tunnel linking Föglö with the main island in Åland

Abstract

The paper describes a well considered subsea road tunnel in Åland, Finland which will hopefully start in the very near future. The paper describes partly the socio-economics and public benefits of such a project in Åland and partly some technical aspects of designing and constructing road tunnels under the sea to connect land masses. The tunnel is expected to be constructed along the lines of similar rock tunnels being constructed and entered into successful operation in many of the Scandinavian /Nordic countries. More important though is the vital role such a project will serve for the society in Åland. The project is not one that serves millions of people in busy mega cities – still it is a pleasure to see a mega project for a small community mature, starting from a sketchy plan made by individual enthusiasts to a solid plan for a multi-million Euro investment.