Trafikverket announced its decision on the new E4 route in a press release, stating:
"The decision has been made based on an overall assessment of the effects and consequences of the alternatives, and the extent to which they meet the project’s purpose and goals."
Pia Törrö, project manager at Trafikverket, added:
– We have studied, compared and thoroughly investigated all options. We’ve listened to the feedback we’ve received, and overall, Östra leden is the option that best meets the project’s goals - namely, to build an E4 that enables smoother transport and safer traffic solutions.
Trafikverket highlighted cost savings, climate impact, and relief of the current E4 as key arguments favoring Östra leden. The agency had previously examined corridors through Tuvan, Sundgrundsleden, and Link 372.
– All three corridors are more expensive, meet the project goals to a lesser extent than Östra leden, and provide less relief to the existing E4, Trafikverket writes.
Work now begins on designing the road plan, which will include detailed planning and field studies. A concrete proposal is anticipated next year.
– There are two main design alternatives, where the road could either pass over or under the Norrbotniabanan, says Pia Törrö.
Construction is scheduled to begin in 2029.