New Bicycle Bridge Over the IJ: A Step Towards Better Connectivity in Amsterdam

The funds for the Oostbrug are secured. Both the Vervoerregio and the municipality will jointly finance and construct this bridge. The bicycle and pedestrian bridge will span from Azartplein to Johan Van Hasseltweg, with a projected completion date no earlier than 2034.

The bridge over the IJ is a significant development for improving connectivity between Noord and the rest of Amsterdam. The Vervoerregio, alongside the municipality, is allocating extra funds for this project. This bridge aims to enhance accessibility to various parts of the city and region by bicycle.

The Oostbrug will enable cyclists from Noord to reach the eastern side of Amsterdam 10 to 12 minutes faster. They will no longer need to dismount for the ferry. The bridge will connect to the inner ring, a fast bicycle route around central Amsterdam, providing quick access to the city center.

The construction costs are estimated at approximately 300 million euros. Both the municipality and the Vervoerregio will each cover half of these costs. Additionally, the municipality is setting aside funds for safe routes to and from the bridge. This decision still requires approval from the Regioraad. Also, following the Oostbrug, there are also plans for the Westbrug, which will connect the NDSM wharf in Amsterdam-Noord with the Danzigerkade in Amsterdam-West.

Alderman Melanie van der Horst expressed her satisfaction with the joint effort between Amsterdam and the Vervoerregio: "A fixed link between Noord and the rest of the city is crucial for Amsterdam's residents and neighboring municipalities. With numerous new homes and workplaces being developed across the region, the number of people needing to cross the IJ is increasing. The ferries cannot handle this capacity. We anticipate that 20,000 to 25,000 people will use the bridge daily."

The municipality and Vervoerregio are collaborating with the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management, Rijkswaterstaat, the Province of Noord-Holland, Port of Amsterdam, and the Central Nautical Management. Detailed planning will continue in the coming years, followed by the decision to proceed with construction and the announcement of tenders to market parties. Construction is expected to begin in 2031, with the earliest completion in 2034.