Here at the Blauwehoofdbrug, history and modern Amsterdam intertwine. This steel arch bridge is in the Oostelijk Havengebied. It carries traffic over the point where the IJhaven flows into the Ertshaven.
The Blauwehoofdbrug, or Bridge 163, wasn’t always here. Once, a solid dam connected the Rietlanden with Java-eiland and KNSM-eiland. This was the Verbindingsdam. It linked the Y-island to the Dutch Railways’ marshalling yard. The dam had a peculiar angle. Long freight trains needed to navigate a curve.
Around 1994, transformation began. The deserted harbor area was reimagined as a residential district. Construction of the Blauwehoofdbrug started during this period. Even before trams crossed, tram rails were integrated in the bridge in 2004.
Hans van Heeswijk Architecten designed the Blauwehoofdbrug. The bridge rests on the Verbindingsdam’s edges. It was built in phases to maintain traffic flow. The Blauwehoofdbrug is wide relative to its span of 22 meters. Seven crossbeams support the bridge deck. These hang from the arches. The arches also integrate public lighting.
GVB tram line 7, bus line 43, and bus line 65 now use the Blauwehoofdbrug. The bridge accommodates all types of traffic. Separate paths exist for cyclists and pedestrians. Its fixed design means tall ships must detour. They must navigate the IJ north of Java-eiland.
Interestingly, the Blauwehoofdbrug gets its name from a former bulwark. But that bulwark wasn’t even close to here. Bolwerk Blauwhoofd stood near the present Barentszplein. The bulwark was in the city’s western part. Locals sometimes call it Ertsbrug or Strekdambrug. Others know it as the bridge Verbindingsdam.
Look to the northeast. You can spot a remnant of the original structures. It is a reminder of the area’s past. The Blauwehoofdbrug stands as a testament. It is a testament to Amsterdam’s evolving landscape. It is a seamless blend of history and contemporary life.