The Cruquius Bridge between Haarlemmermeer and Heemstede will be replaced after ninety years for a sustainable variant. Local residents think that’s a good idea, but the operation worries them. Previous work – about ten years ago – caused considerable damage to their homes.
Ten years later, the cracks are still clearly visible in some homes on the Bennebroekerdijk. Most victims were compensated for the damage, but the residents are watching the preparatory work with suspicion.
First work
At the beginning of this year, local residents saw the first green workers and construction workers near the bridge. For example, seven trees were felled at the beginning of February, an extra layer of sand was applied a month later and the pedestrian tunnel will be closed until at least March 2023.
The province is replacing the bridge to guarantee accessibility, traffic flow and safety. The eastern part of the bridge (lanes in the direction of Heemstede) will be completely replaced.
The transition will be wider, creating more space for cyclists and pedestrians. The pedestrian tunnel will also be tackled and a bicycle underpass will be built on the side of Cruquius (towards Haarlemmermeer). On that side, the bridge will not be replaced, but renovated.
The work is scheduled to be completed in early 2024, which means that local residents will be looking at a construction pit for at least two years.
Rust spots
The residents agree with the province that the bridge could use a facelift. “You see the rust spots and you hear the bridge chatter when heavy traffic drives over it,” says Michel van Santen.
Yet the inhabitants of Cruquius are not feeling well. A walk-in evening in 2019 has so far been the only moment on which residents have been informed. The province’s website does state that the first preparatory work has started in the first quarter of this year and that the operation must be completed in 2024.
The province has not yet answered questions from NH Nieuws about the planning, traffic nuisance and what the immediate environment will notice.
low maintenance
What is known is that the new bridge will be energy-neutral, circular and as low-maintenance as possible. This should prevent traffic from being hindered during future work. The bridge connection must become self-sufficient and will therefore generate its own energy.