The Tomtebo roundabout on E4 will be rebuilt as a grade-separated junction. The Swedish Transport Administration is planning and developing road plans through 2028, with construction planned to start in spring 2029.

The reconstruction is needed to handle the increased traffic generated by Tomtebo Strand. In the new residential area east of E4, 3,000 homes are planned, which means the current roundabout will become overloaded.

What is a grade-separated junction?

In a grade-separated junction, traffic flows do not cross each other at the same level. This means E4 will run at one level (probably elevated) while the local road Tomtebovägen and pedestrian and bicycle traffic go under or over.

This significantly increases flow on E4 since through traffic doesn't have to stop or slow down at the roundabout. At the same time, local traffic gets safer passage over or under the highway.

Traffic safety and flow

The planned reconstruction is expected to:

  • Increase traffic safety by separating traffic flows
  • Improve flow on E4 by removing queuing at the roundabout
  • Provide safer passage for pedestrian and bicycle traffic
  • Handle the significantly increased traffic from Tomtebo Strand
Today, the yield requirement for entering traffic limits flow on E4. With a grade-separated junction, that limitation disappears.

Tomtebo Strand drives the need

Umeå municipality is developing Tomtebo Strand, a new sustainable district east of E4. The area will have:

  • 3,000 homes
  • Businesses and operations
  • A public square
  • An elementary school
  • Three preschools
  • A nursing home
When all homes are completed, the area generates significantly more traffic than today's roundabout can handle. Therefore, the grade-separated junction is a prerequisite for the district.

Long-term planning

Planning and design work continues through 2028. This includes road plans, construction documents, and procurement of contractors.

Construction start is preliminarily set for spring 2029. During construction, traffic will be affected and alternative routes may need to be used during periods.

Cost

No final cost estimate for the project has been presented yet. Grade-separated junctions are large infrastructure projects that often cost hundreds of millions of kronor depending on design and terrain.

Financing will likely be shared between the Swedish Transport Administration and Umeå municipality, since the junction is necessary for the municipality's urban development while also improving the state E4.