Haarlemmermeer installs recycled cycle bridge for safer commutes in Abbenes
Residents of Abbenes will soon cross the Hoofdvaart safely on a second-hand cycle bridge, repurposed from Vlissingen. The sustainable project reduces waste and cuts construction time, offering a quicker, eco-friendly solution for daily cyclists.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Over the Hoofdvaart, south of the viaduct near Abbenes, Haarlemmermeer |
| Bridge Origin | Port of Vlissingen (previously used) |
| Contractor | Dura Vermeer (storage and preparation), Vic Obdam Staalbouw (adaptation) |
| Timeline | Start: March 26, 2026; Installation: June 2026 |
| Sustainability Features | Reused materials, shorter construction time, reduced raw material use |
| Additional Features | Green paint, poem by Polderdichter Leo Richardson on the railing |
| Alderman Responsible | Marja Ruigrok (Traffic & Transport) |
The municipality of Haarlemmermeer is responsible for local infrastructure, including cycle paths and bridges, ensuring safe and sustainable mobility for its residents. This project reflects their commitment to circular economy principles by reusing materials and reducing environmental impact.
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Second-hand and sustainable: new cycle bridge in Abbenes
The municipality of Haarlemmermeer is installing a second-hand cycle bridge over the Hoofdvaart, just south of the viaduct near Abbenes. The bridge is being installed to make the crossing safer for cyclists. Alderman Marja Ruigrok (Traffic & Transport) gave the starting signal for the work on March 26. The bridge is expected to be installed in June.
Why is a new cycle bridge being installed?
On the A44, the Kaagbrug and a number of viaducts are being replaced. One of these is the viaduct over the Hoofdvaart. This is why a temporary cycle bridge was initially needed so that cyclists would not have to take a detour. The municipality has chosen to make this temporary solution permanent. The current crossing is unclear and sometimes unsafe. The new cycle bridge will make this much safer.
Why is this bridge sustainable?
The municipality wants to work more sustainably and reuse more materials. An example of this circular approach is the parking meters that were recently purchased from the municipality of Valkenburg.
There is a special 'bridge bank' for bridges. This is like a marketplace for bridges that deserve a second life. The municipality searched for a bridge that meets the length, width and other requirements. The choice fell on a bridge from the port of Vlissingen that is still in good condition. As Alderman Ruigrok said in her speech at the start signal: “This pre-loved bridge is doubly sustainable because fewer raw materials are used. The construction time is also shorter. This means less nuisance for the surrounding area and for local residents.”
The bridge will be adapted
The bridge is currently in storage with contractor Dura Vermeer. In April, the old paint and asphalt will be removed. The bridge will then go to Vic Obdam Staalbouw in Obdam, where it will be adapted. The bridge will receive new asphalt, new markings and a new coat of paint. At the same time, the contractor will build the supports on both sides of the water at the Hoofdvaart. The bridge is scheduled to be installed in June and will then be ready for use.
A bridge with character
The bridge will be painted green to match the landscape. A poem by Polderdichter Leo Richardson will be placed on the railing of the bridge. This way, this 'pre-loved' bridge, a bridge with a second life, will have a beautiful place in Haarlemmermeer.