There is great annoyance among residents, says Zaankanter David Sluis, who has been working for residents of the Coenbrug and the A8 for more than ten years. “I know people who had already sent letters there thirty years ago because they were bothered by it,” says Sluis.
According to him, several people have moved because of the noise. During a tour by Rijkswaterstaat (RWS), Sluis noticed that it is indeed quieter.
The solution seems simple, but it took a while. “We attach hundreds of soundproofing plates with magnets that dampen the sound,” says Beer de Visser of RWS. According to him, the difference compared to the beginning of this week is significant. “Nothing was done on Monday and we couldn’t have had an interview here.”
Trump’s tariffs caused delays
Still, it wasn’t easy to get all those magnets. Due to the trade tariffs imposed by US President Trump, China blocked precious metals needed for the magnets. “As a result, we had to wait six months longer,” RWS said.
Despite the long wait, Sluis is happy that it is finally quieter for local residents. “It’s very unhealthy that banging and it’s good that it’s being resolved now.” RWS expects the work under the bridge to be completed by mid-December.