Nysse is preparing a major route network reform that is scheduled to be introduced in August 2028. The aim of the reform is to respond to regional growth and changing travel needs while making public transport a clear, convenient and sustainable part of everyday mobility.

To support the planning process, Nysse gathered feedback from residents in spring 2026 through public engagement events in Tampere and two passenger surveys.

The key message from the surveys was clear: for public transport users, a smooth and reliable journey is the most important factor. Punctual services, sufficient service frequencies, clear routes and safe, convenient interchanges were all seen as essential. Respondents also highlighted the need for improvements to cross-city connections, evening and weekend services, and the reliability of transfers.

Surveys provide valuable insight for planning

A total of 2,939 residents across the Nysse area responded to the travel survey, while 160 members of the Tampere Citizens' Panel took part in a separate qualitative survey. Nysse planners also met residents face to face at community events in Peltolammi, Nekala and Kaukajärvi.

Public transport plays a key role in everyday life

The results show that public transport is an important part of daily life for many residents. Around 60% of respondents use it as their primary mode of transport, while approximately 35% use it as part of a wider travel chain alongside other modes.

The factors that most strongly influence public transport use are related to service quality. Respondents identified punctuality and reliability, frequent services, and direct, easy-to-understand routes as the most important attributes. Transfers were also viewed positively when the overall journey remained smooth and predictable.

Accessible stops and convenient transfers matter

Both surveys highlighted the importance of stop accessibility. Respondents indicated that they are willing to walk further to a stop if this results in frequent and reliable service. For most people, a comfortable walking distance is between approximately 200 and 800 metres.

When it comes to transfers, respondents particularly valued short waiting times, short walking distances and clear, safe interchange environments.

Barriers to public transport use

The findings suggest that barriers to public transport use are largely linked to gaps in service accessibility. Long walking distances in areas with lower service levels, unreliable transfers, slow journey times and limited evening and weekend services were all identified as factors that discourage use.

The responses indicate that what matters most is not an individual service, but the quality of the entire journey.

Customer insight supports future planning

The survey results complement other background material used in the Route Network 2028 project and provide valuable insight from public transport users. Overall, the findings reinforce the view that route networks and service levels should be planned from the perspective of the complete passenger journey.

Measures that improve convenience, simplicity and journey time accessibility can support public transport use across different user groups and provide a strong foundation for the continued development of the Route Network 2028 reform.

Customer feedback will also be reflected in the route network planning principles that will be submitted to the Public Transport Committee for approval in June 2026. Based on these principles, a draft route network plan will be published in August and September. Feedback received on the draft will then be used to finalise the plan later in the autumn.

Route Network 2028 project