The movable part of the Papendrechtsebrug on the N3 is due for replacement in 2026. To carry out this large-scale renovation, the bridge must be closed to road traffic for over nine months starting July 2026. High shipping traffic can pass the bridge about once a month for over fourteen months starting June 2026.
To limit inconvenience, we provide various travel alternatives. For example, we are working on two ferry connections over the Beneden-Merwede that allow cyclists, pedestrians, scooters, and mopeds to cross, and discount promotions to make travel by bus, train, and water bus more attractive, especially outside peak hours.
We provide extra shared bicycles at stations, shopping centers, and business parks.
Renovation of movable part
The renovation of the moving parts of the bridge starts in June 2026 and lasts over a year until the end of August 2027. Among other things, we replace the leaf with a heavier steel version and renew the mechanism that opens and closes the bridge. The systems for operation, control, and monitoring are also completely replaced.
The new electronics require much more space than in the 1960s. Therefore, we are adding an extra technical room to the basement. The walls of the existing basement are reinforced, as is the pillar supporting the bridge deck. The basement is being refurbished to meet all safety and occupational health requirements.
The contractor combination Mobilis Croonwolter&Dros is carrying out the work. Preparations are in full swing. A mooring facility and a work area have been set up at the bridge. Designs and planning are underway, and the new leaf is already being built.
Closures cause major inconvenience
Road and water traffic must expect significant inconvenience during the renovation. We will close the Papendrechtsebrug to all traffic from 17 July 2026 to 21 April 2027. The nearby bike path on the Baanhoekbrug will be made available to emergency services during this period and is therefore also closed to traffic.
During the renovation, the bridge cannot be operated for high shipping. Therefore, we will remove the existing leaf from the bridge as soon as possible so that the shipping lane can be cleared about once a month for ships taller than 12.90 m. From 22 June 2026 to early August 2026, the shipping lane is closed for high shipping.
From early August 2026 until 31 August 2027, passage is possible once a month. Low shipping can pass under the fixed part of the bridge and experiences little inconvenience from the renovation. Only during certain work, such as moving the bridge leaf in and out, will the shipping lane be fully closed.
Travel alternatives
We are working on various alternatives so travelers can avoid traffic jams during the bridge renovation. More information can be found on the project page N3: renovation of the Papendrechtsebrug bridge leaf. This page is regularly updated.
