A key milestone has been reached on the A27 Houten–Hooipolder project: Rijkswaterstaat and the De Groene Waarden consortium have signed the implementation agreement for the construction of two new Hagesteinse bridges. Within the consortium, BESIX joins forces with Mobilis, Mourik and Van Gelder in a two-phase delivery approach.
Following a design phase that began in mid-2023, construction will start in summer 2026. The existing bridge will be replaced by two new crossings over the Lek near Vianen.
“Signing this agreement marks an important step forward for the project,” says Nic De Roeck, General Manager BESIX Nederland. “Building these bridges using the free cantilever method allows us to keep river traffic moving while delivering complex infrastructure. It’s a strong example of how collaboration and expertise come together to deliver smart, future-ready solutions.”
About the new Hagesteinse Bridges
The Hagesteinse Bridges are a key link between the Central and Southern Netherlands, carrying around 130,000 vehicles each day. As the existing structure approaches the end of its service life, it will be replaced by two new bridges, one for each direction of traffic. The western bridge will also include a two-way cycle path.
Free cantilever construction technique
The bridges will be built using the free cantilever method, which avoids support structures in the water and allows shipping to continue with minimal disruption. A phased approach will also limit impact on road users: once the western bridge is completed, it will temporarily carry traffic in both directions while the existing bridge is demolished and replaced.
Preparatory work has started
Preparatory works are already underway. In the floodplains of the Lek, sand is being placed and temporary access roads and bridges are being built near the Lekdijk and across the side channel. Construction of the first (western) bridge will start this summer, with completion of both bridges planned for 2034.
The Hagestein Bridges in figures
- Total length: 742 meters
- Free cantilever section: 332 meters
- Span over the river: 164 meters
