International rating agency Fitch has affirmed Tallinn's long-term credit rating at its current high level of AA-, but revised the rating outlook to negative.
The focus of Tallinn's 2024 budget in the transportation sector is on renewing the fleet, developing and modernizing the network, and increasing the eco-friendliness of public transport. Tallinn residents will continue to have access to free public transportation, and night bus service will become a permanent feature. Additionally, the salaries of bus, tram, and trolleybus drivers will increase by 15% next year.
The Tallinn City Government has submitted a budget proposal for 2024 to the City Council, totaling 1.26 billion euros, marking an increase of 79.5 million euros or 6.7 percent compared to the revised 2023 budget.
Tallinn's 2024 budget allocates a record €39.9 million for cultural activities and investments, focusing on ensuring everyone can partake in cultural life, irrespective of special needs or economic barriers.
For the upcoming year, Tallinn's budget allocates nearly 396 million euros for educational operations, representing almost 41% of the total operating costs. The primary focuses include the transition to Estonian-language education, increased investment, and raising the minimum wage for teachers.
Tallinn is gearing up for major investments in sports ahead of its designation as the European Capital of Sport in 2025. According to the city’s budget proposal for the next year, the largest investment in sports will be allocated to the renovation of Kadriorg Stadium, along with initiatives to expand exercise and sports facilities throughout the city.