Across the Gein river stands the Geinboogbrug. A modern marvel it replaces a much older structure. This isn’t just any bridge. The Geinboogbrug is a vital link in Amsterdam’s infrastructure. It carries the N236 provincial road. This busy artery connects Amsterdam to surrounding areas. The Geinboogbrug is more than a simple crossing.
For centuries a bridge has spanned the Gein at this point. Records mention a Geinbrug as early as 1795. A map from around 1749 also shows it. There was likely a bridge here long before that. The current Geinboogbrug however has a more recent history. Its story begins around 1900 with a simple arch bridge. That bridge served the area well. But it proved insufficient for growing traffic.
By 1976 Amsterdam deemed the old bridge too narrow. They commissioned a new footbridge and cycle bridge. This was added alongside the existing stone structure. This setup lasted until 2016. By then the old bridge was in poor condition. Replacement was essential. The replacement proved challenging. The bridge sits at a complex intersection. The N236 meets the Zandpad-Driemond road. It also intersects with two roads running along the Gein itself.
Initial plans involved splitting the bridge into two. One section would handle through traffic. The other would merge the Gein roads. This proposal faced considerable opposition. It would drastically alter the village landscape. Concerns were raised about Amsterdam’s heritage regulations. They also worried about the historical waterway. A compromise was reached. The new Geinboogbrug kept the original arch bridge’s form. It was widened however to incorporate a roundabout. This functions as a priority intersection and a roundabout simultaneously.
Royal HaskoningDHV designed the current bridge. Construction began in 2017. The old bridge was removed. A temporary steel bridge was built. This handled traffic during the construction. A pontoon bridge was also available for cyclists and pedestrians. The project was finished on November 20 2017. The Geinboogbrug opened to traffic. The new bridge is wider and taller. It’s clad in brown brick. It has separated lanes for cars and a dedicated cycle path. GVB bus line 49 now uses it. The bridge is named Geinboogbrug reflecting its arch design and location. It stands as a testament to engineering and compromise. It’s a vital part of Amsterdam’s story. It shows the city’s ability to adapt while preserving its past. Look at the Geinboogbrug. It reflects Amsterdam’s spirit.