The N33 is a national road and an important route for the region to and from the Eemshaven. However, the current N33 does not meet modern requirements. Adjustments are needed to improve traffic safety and widen the road where necessary to prevent delays in the future. It is also important for the accessibility and development of Northeast Groningen.
N33 Middle: project restart
The Province of Groningen and Rijkswaterstaat previously worked on doubling the N33 between Zuidbroek and Appingedam. In mid-2021, the project was halted due to budget shortages and nitrogen issues. The national government and the province are now restarting the project. Funding has been made available through the Nij Begun program. The starting point remains the 2021 established Design Tracé Decision, developed in consultation with municipalities and the community. The plans include doubling the road and grade-separated intersections. This should ensure safer and smoother traffic flow. The new project team will work on an action plan and update previous studies in the coming period. Residents and entrepreneurs will also be involved.
N33 North: research on future design
For the northern part of the N33, between Appingedam and the Eemshaven, an exploratory study was conducted over the past two years by the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management (I&W). This study involved municipalities, the Groninger Dorpen foundation, youth, and environmental organizations. In the next phase, the Ministry of I&W and Rijkswaterstaat will investigate together with the community which possible road design best fits future plans. The condition is that it must contribute to livability and broad prosperity in the area.
Eelwerderbrug
The Eelwerderbrug over the Eemskanaal is also part of this study. An aqueduct under the Eemskanaal is one of the possible solutions being investigated. The goal is to decide on the definitive start of the project by mid-2026.
Joint approach
The N33 Middle and N33 North sections are in different phases. The project teams for Middle and North are working on a joint approach. It is expected that the national government will inform stakeholders about the further progress by mid-2026, both in the northern part and in the area around N33 Middle.