bicycle underpass Haarlem

bicycle underpass

Cyclists and pedestrians who want to cross the intersection at the foot of the Buitenrust bridges in Haarlem can either wait for ages until it is safe for them to cross the road, or simply take the underpass that leads them to the other side fast and smooth. The underpass is well lit at night and lies partially below water level, manifesting the presence of the Spaarne waterway.

design

The new bicycle underpass is a 5-metre wide bridge that partially lies about 25 centimetres below water level. The railing clearly shows where the bridge deck goes below water level, as it also acts as a barrier. LED-lighting is integrated within the railing’s handrail.

The design was made to fit the location. Slope and length have been chosen to ensure a good balance between user comfort and building costs. The underpass connects well to the existing cycling paths and as it doesn’t physically touch the existing traffic bridges, it doesn’t interfere with its monumental status and allows the water to flow freely, which prevents dirt piling up. An integrated water pump enables for rainwater to be pumped back into the surrounding waters.

counterweight

The 110 meter long underpass is comprised of steel and was prefabricated in a factory nearby and then transported to the site over water.

Thanks to its boxed structure, the underpass could float. Therefore, once in place, concrete counterweight was added in order for the deck to stay put.

At its lowest point, the deck surface lies 25 centimetre below water level, with the railings functioning as a barrier.