Picture this: a gentle rise. A graceful arch spanning the Angstel River. This is De Derde Brug in Abcoude.
De Derde Brug isn’t just any bridge. It’s the third bridge over the Angstel River in Abcoude. That’s its official name. It’s a vital part of the town’s ring road. De Derde Brug opened in 2010. It cost over 2.2 million euros to build. That doesn’t include planning costs.
The bridge’s construction wasn’t without controversy. Plans for De Derde Brug existed as early as 1968. The goal was to ease traffic congestion in Abcoude’s center. However there was opposition. Concerns were raised about the impact on surrounding neighborhoods. Debate lasted for years. The location even changed at one point.
De Derde Brug’s design is interesting. It’s a lift bridge 19 meters long. It’s 14 meters wide and 6.5 meters high. The architects aimed for a modern take on Abcoude’s other bridges. You’ll notice the unique counterweight system. The towers aren’t connected. One houses the machinery. The other is the bridgekeeper’s house. The lifting mechanism is visible.
Using De Derde Brug is free. However there’s a waiting time. It can be up to half an hour. The bridge’s operation varies by season. During summer there’s daily operation. In winter operation is limited to weekdays. You need to call ahead to request service. These rules haven’t changed since 2017. Bus line 126 used to cross De Derde Brug. That ended in December 2016.
De Derde Brug is more than just concrete and steel. It’s a testament to Abcoude’s history. It’s a symbol of progress. It’s a link between past and present. So next time you cross this bridge appreciate its story.