Construction at Hlemmur square and CityLine development
The City Executive Council approved starting the procurement procedure today for construction at Hlemmur square and the CityLine through Hlemmur. This major project includes rebuilding intersections and street corridors, creating a new square and building the CityLine in the area.
Work is slated to begin in April 2026, with completion set for the end of 2027.
The total project cost is an estimated 1.19 billion króna. Of this amount, Reykjavík City's estimated share is 500 million króna. This will be a joint construction tender with Transport for the Capital Area and Veitur Utilities.
The construction work includes:
- Rebuilding the Snorrabraut and Hverfisgata intersection.
- Rebuilding the street section on Snorrabraut from Bríetartún to Hverfisgata.
- Building a square north of the CityLine route and a square south of the CityLine route from Snorrabraut east to the Hlemmur food hall.
- Building the CityLine through Hlemmur square and installing two CityLine stops in the area.
- Replacing sewage, water and heating pipes, wiring, telecommunications lines and traffic lights.
Improved facilities for public transportation, pedestrians and cyclists
This construction will transform Hlemmur square into a vibrant city center with more space for pedestrians and cyclists and better facilities for public transportation, which will be the only vehicular traffic through the square. The surrounding area will become more walkable and attractive, fostering diverse public life. Biking routes through the area will be greatly improved, and high-quality biking facilities will also be established, including bike repair and storage areas.
The plan emphasizes making the area green with diverse vegetation and will include rain gardens, which are special planted areas that collect stormwater. Several phases at Hlemmur have already been completed, giving the area a new look with an attractive overall square design, seating areas and vegetation.
