New cycle route ‘De Slinger’ connects Zaandam
Last year (2020), the renewed station area in Zaanstad opened with a new connection over the railway tracks and a new parking facility for cyclists. The station’s renovations resulted in the implementation of a modern railway crossing in the typical Zaan style. A newly built entrance to the station with shops and a cycle path connects the centre with the west of Zaanstad. The new light and modern bicycle parking on the station’s west side provides space for 1400 bicycles. Please find below more information about how this new connection was realised and find answers to the question: Will there be more to come?
Photo: Marjolein de Lange
16th-century inspiration
‘De Slinger’ is a new cycle route crossing the railway tracks and the packed provincial road (N203) in Zaandam. It connects the renovated city centre with the western neighbourhoods. Next to ‘De Slinger’, a bicycle parking facility has been constructed which, similar to the town hall and hotel, is inspired by the style of the wooden houses from the 16th century in Zaandam.
Challenges
‘De Slinger’ is now connected to the Zaandam bicycle network. The integration and realisation of the connection between the tracks has been challenging. For instance, challenges were faced in the realisation of the western parking facility, at the connection west of the tracks, at a second eastern connection and in banning scooters along the network. Nonetheless, further additions and improvements are being planned though maintaining the ban on scooters remains a challenge.
Photo: Marjolein de Lange
Future
A new parking facility will also be built on the east side to replace the current temporary facility on the Noordschebos. This will be located on the lower floors of the Figaro building.
Learn more about the opening in September 2020 in this article.
