Renovation Mandela Bridge and Cycling on the A12: these are the plans at Station Zoetermeer

The municipality wants to turn the Nelson Mandela bridge. In addition, the plan is to construct a bicycle crossing parallel to the Afrikaweg. For example, we will no longer have to go on the escalator with our bike or with the elevator to get to the other side of the A12.

With the arrival of the new Entree residential area, the area at Zoetermeer train station will also be changed. The earlier plans already contained a new station hall, bus platform and bicycle crossing. The ideas have now been adjusted slightly.

Tickets again shaken

The municipality announced the plans for the station area in November 2022. But in December the Mandela bridge suddenly had to be closed off for traffic due to cracks in the concrete. Now more than two years later, the municipality has again considered the plans of the time, and also thought of what should be done with the bridge.

Mandela bridge patch up

When the city council agrees with the proposal, the college starts preparing a thorough renovation of the bridge. They then make an implementation plan for strengthening the supporting structure. In addition, they look at whether the blue-yellow roof can be restored, or whether a new design is needed. They also view access to the station on both sides and the technical installations of the lifts and escalators.

Bicycle crossing a little further

In a time we can cross the A12 via a parallel road along the Afrikaweg. No more hassle with bicycles lugging on the escalator, being stuck in the elevator with your fatbike or waiting in line at the reserve lift. Via the new cycle path you will soon cross the A12, the Zuidweg in Rokkeveen and the track.

Center West can stay

The plans also contained the idea of building a bus platform above the station area, instead of the West Bus and Tram stop Center. These plans are off the track, the platform is not coming and Centrum West just stays in its familiar place.