Province of Drenthe and Rijkswaterstaat Northern Netherlands are improving traffic safety and flow at the Gieten traffic junction and the N34. A lengthened bus lane and an additional lane (bypass) from the N33 to the N34 will be constructed. Additionally, during maintenance work on the N34 between Zuidlaren and De Punt and between Exloo and Borger, the Province of Drenthe will implement a no-overtaking zone and roadside reinforcement. This will allow traffic, including public transport, to move more smoothly and safely. The work will start in spring 2026 and is expected to be completed by December of that year.
Deputy Henk Jumelet: “The situation at Gieten requires improvement. With these adjustments, we make the N34 and N33 safer and improve traffic flow. We do not want to wait for the construction of the fly-over but want to take steps now. Together, we ensure that everyone, from motorists to bus passengers, can travel more safely and smoothly.”
Bus Lane Adjustments
The bus lane towards the Gieten public transport hub (south side) will be extended. This allows buses to bypass traffic jams during morning and evening rush hours. It is also being investigated whether a bus lane can be constructed on the north side of the traffic junction. These measures will enable buses to reach the public transport hub more quickly.
Measures at Gieten Exit
At the Gieten exit (on the Oelenboom), barriers have been placed to prevent cutting in line in the traffic jam on the N34. These barriers will be replaced by a guardrail to make the situation clearer and neater.
Additional Lane
An additional lane will be constructed for traffic from the N33 (Assen) to the N34 (Emmen). This makes it easier for traffic to merge and reduces the risk of traffic jams on the N33. The new situation at the Gieten traffic junction and the Oelenboom will remain until the fly-over is completed, expected in 2030. The design is currently being worked on.
Roadside Reinforcement and No-Overtaking Zone
To improve safety at other locations along the N34, roadside reinforcement will be installed on both sides of the road between Zuidlaren and De Punt and between Exloo and Borger. This makes it less dangerous to leave the road. Additionally, a no-overtaking zone will be implemented on these sections. The green road markings will be widened with double ribs. The work will be combined with maintenance on the N34.
