The Persoonsdam has transformed from grey to green. The revamped square in the Feijenoord district will open on Wednesday. Tiles out, plants in: with the newly designed Persoonsdam, the city gains 4,890 square meters of greenery, nearly half a hectare.
The square on the South, between Jalonstraat and Persoonsdam, long appeared grey with tiles. These have been replaced by green areas and 10 new trees. Existing trees have been given a better base to help rainwater drain more easily from the square.
Life in the city
The Feijenoord district council initiated the project to make the square at Persoonsdam greener. The square will be officially opened on Wednesday by Alderman Pascal Lansink-Bastemeijer, who oversees the citys public spaces.
‘Greening literally brings life into the city,’ says Lansink-Bastemeijer. ‘It provides cooling, better rainwater drainage, peace, and relaxation. Most importantly, greenery improves the quality of life. Making this square green enhances the quality of life in Feijenoord, benefiting every resident.’
The Verre Bergen Foundation, which supports projects in the city, is also present at the opening. The foundation has financially contributed to placing larger trees and shrubs on the square.
Central Place
The Persoonsdam is a central place in the Feijenoord district (not to be confused with the Feijenoord city area). The square is home to schools, a sports hall, and a playground association.
The Community House at Persoonsdam now overlooks more trees, grass, and shrubs.
Green Agenda
The planting of trees and shrubs on the Persoonsdam is part of the green agenda Rotterdam Goes for Green. The square is one of 15 city squares being greened under this action program.
The current municipal governments goal is to plant 20 hectares of greenery in Rotterdam between 2023 and 2026, equivalent to 30 football fields. Currently, the tally stands at 17.4 hectares. In 2025, other locations like Ambachtsplein in Zevenkamp, Mijnsherenplein in Charlois, and the Jules Deelderplein in the Oude Westen will also be greened.
More Information
Want to know more about greenery in the city? Visit rotterdam.nl/meer-groen-in-de-stad to see which other areas the municipality is greening. Residents of Feijenoord play a crucial role in greening the neighborhood. Visit the website of Groene Golf op Zuid to learn more about local initiatives.