ProRail and the Province of North Holland are taking new measures together to better protect the railway bridge over the Westerweg (N242) in Heerhugowaard against collisions.
N242 Closed
On Tuesday, May 13 at 8:00 PM, adjusted warning cones will be hung on the height portals. The work will last until the next morning at 5:00 AM. The N242 is closed in both directions at the railway viaduct. Traffic towards Alkmaar will be directed via Broek op Langedijk and the N245. Traffic towards Schagen can drive via the Westtangent.
Improved Versions
Collisions caused by too tall trucks regularly result in damage to the railway bridge and disruptions to train traffic between Alkmaar and Heerhugowaard. The previously placed cones did not work as hoped and even posed a danger to road users. Therefore, ProRail, in consultation with the province, is placing new, technically improved versions.
The new cones are made of lighter plastic (polyurethane) instead of steel, but still meet all weight requirements. The suspension will also be adjusted. We will use stronger chains, which reduces the chance of a cone coming loose in a collision.
We will hang the warning cones a few centimeters higher than 4.00 meters, so that trucks have some margin. However, the legal clearance height for the railway bridge remains 4.00 meters. Trucks taller than that are in violation. This is also clearly indicated at the railway bridge. The height portals with cones serve as a final warning for truck drivers before they drive under the railway bridge. They will be placed at the northern and southern height portal on the night of May 13 to 14.
Mind the Limit
We ask drivers and transport companies to be alert to the height of their vehicle. The railway bridge is suitable for traffic up to a maximum height of 4.00 meters. By checking in advance, we can prevent a lot of trouble together.
“We are taking this measure to protect the bridge, even though it meets all construction regulations,” says Harro Homan, regional director at ProRail. “We really hope this has an effect now, because the bridge has suffered, and the traveler even more. Every collision caused by an over-height truck results in damage, delays, and frustration. We want to tackle this together.”
Towards a Structural Solution
In addition to temporary measures, a structural solution is also being sought. The replacement of the railway bridge is currently planned for 2039. ProRail is exploring with the municipality of Dijk en Waard and the Province of North Holland whether this moment can be brought forward.