Peering over the Oostertoegang, what stories could this steel giant tell if it could talk? The Oostertoegangsspoorbrug, or Oostelijke Onderdoorgang as some call it, is more than just a railway bridge. It’s a vital artery that channels the lifeblood of Amsterdam right into its heart.
This structure carries ten railway tracks. The Oostertoegangsspoorbrug facilitates countless journeys daily. Imagine the rumble and roar as trains pass. Think about the sheer weight it bears.
The Oostertoegangsspoorbrug spans the Oostertoegang waterway. This connects the Open Havenfront and the IJ. Roads flank the water, leading to De Ruijterkade. To the west lies Stationsplein. To the east is Oosterdokseiland. The bridge links these key areas.
The bridge is a combination of five two-track bridges. One is made of concrete. This blend of materials makes it exceptionally wide. It reflects different eras of engineering.
The first part of the Oostertoegangsspoorbrug opened in 1889. This coincided with the opening of Centraal Station. The bridge’s name reflects its location. It marks the eastern access to the station.
Until 1944, Kringtramlijn 22 circled under the bridge. In 1950, a bus line replaced it. Since 2005, tram 26 has run under the western section. Buses to and from IJ-zijde bus station also pass beneath it.
Once, 22 stone lions decorated the railway viaducts near Centraal Station. These lions were carved in 1875. They symbolized the struggle between the city and the state. Amsterdam wanted to keep the station out of the port. The state prevailed. The lions were placed on three gates.
Later expansions led to their removal and sale. There’s now a push to return two lions to the Oostertoegang. Sixteen have been found nationwide. Four reside in Beatrixpark.
In fact, Hollandia Infra collaborated with Dura Vermeer and Mammoet. Together they replaced four steel railway bridges and one concrete railway bridge on the eastern side of Amsterdam Central Station. The steel bridges had reached the end of their lifespan. Work began last summer, with the removal of the northernmost concrete trough bridge.
In November 2019, the new bridge was transported in three sections on pontoons. It traveled from Hollandia Infra in Krimpen aan de IJssel to Amsterdam. To pass under the lowest bridge, the pontoons and part of the bridge were submerged. Ballast tanks were filled with water to achieve this.
So next time you cross the Oostertoegangsspoorbrug, remember its history. Think of the trains, trams, and buses that pass. Imagine the stone lions guarding its path. This bridge is not just a structure. It is a symbol of Amsterdam’s resilience. It is a testament to its enduring spirit.