Amsterdam’s Bold Move: Expanding Ferry Services to Alleviate IJ River Congestion

The city of Amsterdam has unveiled plans to tackle rising congestion on ferries operating across the IJ River. As passenger numbers increase, largely attributed to a growing population in North Amsterdam, officials are advocating for the introduction of larger vessels and more frequent service.

Traffic alderwoman Melanie van der Horst of the D66 party has detailed the city’s strategy to enhance ferry services, including investments in larger ferries and extending operational hours on routes such as the Distelweg-Pontsteiger, which will now also run on weekends starting January 1st. However, a significant challenge remains: a shortage of ferry captains. The public transport operator GVB is actively seeking to recruit around 40 new captains over the next few years.

Discussions around long-term solutions have been ongoing, with options like a pedestrian and cyclist tunnel, extra metro stations, and permanent bridges on the table. The city’s decision, however, leans toward building two fixed bridges for pedestrians and cyclists: the East Bridge and the West Bridge. Construction on the East Bridge, which will connect the Hamerkwartier area on the northern side of the IJ with Azartplein on the southern side, is set to begin with an anticipated completion in 2034. After delays due to planning and financial issues, van der Horst confirmed in July that funding has been secured, thanks to contributions from both the city and the Amsterdam Transport Region.

In the meantime, ferry services will continue to play a critical role in accommodating the growing demand for transportation across the IJ River.

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