Ever wondered about the story behind a seemingly ordinary bridge in Amsterdam Nieuw-West? That’s the Frans van Goolbrug. Today, we’ll uncover its history and significance.
The Frans van Goolbrug is also known as bridge number 709. It’s a fixed bridge that crosses the Slotervaart. You’ll find it on the Jacques Veltmanstraat. The Frans van Goolbrug provides access to the Plesmanlaan, from the Slotervaart district.
This concrete traffic bridge dates back to 1960. Dick Slebos, from Publieke Werken, designed it. But it wasn’t always called the Frans van Goolbrug. So how did it get its name?
In 2016 or 2017, Amsterdam residents requested the bridge be named after architect Frans van Gool. Ironically, the request was initially for bridge 701. This bridge is also in the same neighborhood.
Frans van Gool had a significant impact nearby. He designed the Bluebanddorp, including the distinctive sawtooth houses on Andries Snoekstraat. The municipality made an exception to its rule. They usually wait five years after a person’s death before naming something after them. Frans van Gool had only passed away in 2015.
The Frans van Goolbrug stands as a testament to new architectural styles. It even earned a spot on the municipal monument list in 2008. The Frans van Goolbrug is more than just a way to cross the Slotervaart. It represents architectural innovation and community recognition.