paroolOct 27, 2026, 02:00

Opinion from PRO Amsterdam-Noord: 'No, former alderman Stadig, one or two ferries won't help us'

Wijbe Langeveld of PRO Amsterdam-Noord has rejected former alderman Duco Stadig's proposal to use additional ferries instead of building the proposed Oostbrug bridge. Langeveld argues that ferries cannot accommodate the massive residential development planned for North Amsterdam through 2049, citing current operational failures as proof that more robust infrastructure is necessary.

Wijbe Langeveld, chairman of PRO Amsterdam-Noord, has publicly criticized former alderman Duco Stadig for his suggestion that additional ferries could adequately address the transportation needs in North Amsterdam. Stadig recently argued that a new bridge, known as the Oostbrug, is unnecessary and that more ferries would suffice. However, Langeveld contends that this proposal fails to account for the substantial residential growth planned for the area, with 55,000 new homes expected to be built in North by 2049. Given the current technical and staffing issues affecting the existing ferry fleet, Langeveld views the reliance on ferries as unrealistic.

Langeveld further rejected the idea of a tunnel with escalators, noting that it would be insufficient for the thousands of daily cyclists crossing the IJ. He argues that the city administration must stop postponing infrastructure projects and prioritize the construction of bridges to ensure proper connectivity for North. According to Langeveld, the future growth of neighborhoods like the Hamerkwartier and Buikslotermeerplein requires a more robust and permanent solution than temporary ferry expansions.

Politics Amsterdam

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Based on reporting by parool. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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