What if this bridge could talk? The Van der Pekbrug stands before you, a testament to Amsterdam’s ever-evolving spirit.
This bridge is named after Jan Ernst van der Pek. He is also the namesake of the street and the neighborhood it connects. The Van der Pekbrug, bridge number 995, stretches across the Buiksloterkanaal.
In 2016, this bridge was completed. The municipality of Amsterdam recognized the need for enhanced connectivity. This was due to the development around the A’DAM Toren and EYE Filmmuseum. They wanted to create a residential and shopping area.
Korth Tielens Architecten designed the Van der Pekbrug. They delivered a modern design that still acknowledged the area’s industrial past. This bridge accommodates all types of traffic. The northern section features a pedestrian path to the west and a two-way traffic lane. A unique “window” offers a glimpse of the water below. The southern part is dedicated to pedestrians and cyclists. It gently inclines westward at a 4.5% grade.
The concrete structure uses prefabricated beams. These rest upon casing-drilling piles. The upper structure is also concrete. Look closely. It is encased in what appears to be brick. These are actually fragments of basalt stones. They were reclaimed from the Zeeland coastline. Their varying shades of grey add character.
The Van der Pekbrug links two distinct areas. On one side, the Van der Pek neighborhood. It was designed in the 1920s as a garden village for dockworkers. On the other side, the modern Overhoeks district. It features apartment complexes, offices, and cultural buildings. The bridge acts as a small town square. The bridge’s edges are wide. They provide robust seating areas.
This bridge symbolizes the connection between different worlds and eras. The reused basalt stones represent the rich history of Amsterdam-Noord. Since May 2016, Bus line 38 has been using this bridge. As you stand here, consider the journeys the Van der Pekbrug facilitates daily. It is more than just a crossing. It is a meeting point, a connector, a piece of Amsterdam’s story.