The total distance of the mainland connection is 51 km, consisting of several bridges and tunnels. Construction costs have been approximately 1,5 billion NOK.
Local and regional traffic to/from the Harstad area probably explains a large share of the traffic increase. Interview data confirms that Lofast has facilitated an increase in short visits from the neighbouring areas.
Statistics show that Lofoten has experienced a pronounced increase in the number of overnight stays (+29 000 nights) since the completion of Lofast. In the neighbouring region of Vesterålen, there has been a modest decrease in the number of overnight stays (-5 000 nights).
The main airport of Evenes has experienced increased traffic from 2007 to 2008. The traffic increase can be explained both by a transfer of traffic from the regional airports, and by a growth in the market for international charter flights.
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