At the beginning of 2025, a renewed approach was presented in which risks are distributed more equitably among parties. We expect to bring the first contract to the market by mid-July.

Why high costs?

In the realization of projects, we always strive for an acceptable balance between costs and a controlled project. Not for nothing was the previous tender for the Van Brienenoord Bridge canceled. It became clear then that the estimated and reserved budget was too low for the realization of the entire project.

The consideration of a higher amount now is partly due to significant price increases in recent years. Prices for materials and labor have risen sharply, and market conditions have also changed. Market parties are less willing to take risks, and there is a lot of work to be done in the infrastructure, energy, and housing sectors.

Renewed approach

After canceling an earlier tender, we presented a renewed approach for the renovation of the busiest bridge in the Netherlands during a market consultation at the beginning of 2025. Adjustments have been made in this approach. The project has been divided into 4 contracts to limit risks for market parties.

We will manage the interfaces between the contracts. A modified contract form has also been proposed for the first contract, which is based on the actual costs incurred by the contractor to better manage risks.

Project continuation

Rijkswaterstaat expects to start the tender for the first contract for the renovation of the Van Brienenoord Bridge by mid-July 2025. The first contract includes the replacement of the movable parts and civil works on the bridge. Later this year, the tender will also follow for a party that will carry out the transport and installation of the 2 arches of the bridge.