In 2022, leaders expressed the ambition for further development and realization of the VeluweWaalpad. With the signing of the cooperation agreement, the involved parties are actively committed to improving cycling infrastructure and sustainable mobility in the region. The VeluweWaalpad will not only improve accessibility but also contribute to a healthier and more environmentally friendly living environment.

Subsidy Scheme from the Province

The province of Gelderland supports the construction of the VeluweWaalpad with a subsidy scheme for large-scale cycling projects within the main cycling network. With this scheme, municipalities can apply for co-financing for the implementation of their part of the route.

Deputy Klaas Ruitenberg emphasizes the importance of this collaboration: By working together and investing in high-quality cycling infrastructure, we make our province more accessible and attractive for everyone. This cycling route runs through an area where many new homes will be built in the coming years. Therefore, accessibility must be well organized. We want to reduce traffic jams on the road, so it is very important to also invest in public transport and a strong cycling network in this growth area.

Route that Connects the Region

The shared ambition is to realize the VeluweWaalpad as a clean and healthy route. The proposed route alternates between residential areas, work locations, and open landscapes, linking local and regional destinations together. This is done, among other things, through feeders, which are cross-connections that lead to the cycling path. It will become much easier to make a trip within the region by bike, for example from Nijmegen to Elst and then to Arnhem South. With a continuous and recognizable route, we reach more people and make daily cycling to work, school, or for shopping more enjoyable for many residents.

Joint Commitment to Success

With the signing of the cooperation agreement, the first step has been taken towards the construction of the cycling route. In the coming period, the involved municipalities will work out the final plans for the different parts of the route and involve residents and other stakeholders in this process. Additionally, this agreement is a strong signal to the government about the importance and urgency of the VeluweWaalpad. The construction of the cycling route is essential for the construction of new homes.

Nermina Kundić, political client Connected Region at the Green Metropolitan Region: “With the VeluweWaalpad, we make distances in the region a lot smaller. Soon you will cycle faster from Lent to Elst or from Schuytgraaf to Arnhem city center. Especially if a bicycle bridge is built next to the railway bridge. This new bike path helps make sustainable travel more attractive and provides a better connection to new residential areas or work locations. I am glad that we, as involved parties, are now taking this step together.”