The relocation of the Heikki locomotive to the Riihimäki cityscape will not take place this year

The introduction of the Heikki locomotive to the cityscape of Riihimäki has been delayed for the time being. The Heikki locomotive was intended to be brought back to Paloheimonkatu this year.

The city conducted a tender for the construction of an outdoor showcase for the locomotive and the street environment related to the locomotive's relocation. Two bids were received for the contract by the deadline of June 19. Both bids clearly exceeded the budget of 250 euros allocated in the city's investment program. For this reason, it has been decided to suspend the procurement.

"We are now taking a timeout. I see it as important that the costs related to the locomotive transfer are discussed as part of the 2026 budget process. The city's financial situation requires consideration and careful prioritization of investments," says Technical Director Maria Vasko.

For now, the historic steam locomotive is located in the Riihimäki locomotive sheds, where it is protected from the weather. There is no open access inside.

The city of Riihimäki purchased the Heikki locomotive as a memorial in 1968 and placed it in the Saranpää (Paloheimonkatu) traffic divider in 1970. It remained in this position for 43 years. While in the open air, the locomotive had time to rust and deteriorate, as it did not have a roof for protection. The locomotive was moved to the city depot in 2013 for renovation. The renovation work was completed in 2015. The Heikki locomotive (Hv1 554) was built in 1915.

Additional information

Decision to suspend procurement
Read previous news (January 16, 2025): Heikki locomotive street environment plan on display