The Thorbeckeweg (N516) is one of the main access roads to Zaandam. Every day, residents, businesses, visitors and public transport services make intensive use of this route. As Zaanstad continues to grow, pressure on this connection is increasing. This results in traffic congestion, delays to public transport and situations in which cyclists and pedestrians are particularly vulnerable.
According to the project partners, traffic volumes on this route are expected to increase significantly towards 2030, with approximately 14,000 additional cars per day.
A major redevelopment of the Thorbeckeweg – N516 has therefore been initiated. The project started in 2023 and is expected to continue until mid-2027.
The Thorbeckeweg is essential for the accessibility of Zaandam Zuid, Poelenburg and Zaandam city centre. Traffic travelling to and from business districts such as Zuiderhout, Westerspoor and Achtersluispolder also makes extensive use of this route.
At the same time, the region continues to grow as a result of housing development and economic activity, including developments at locations such as the Hembrugterrein and MAAK.Zaanstad. As a result, the number of traffic movements is expected to increase further in the coming years.
The authorities involved therefore aim to improve traffic flow, road safety and the accessibility of the surrounding areas.
Improvements are being implemented at several locations within the project. One of the main interventions is the grade-separated junction at Vijfhoek. Traffic on the Thorbeckeweg will pass underneath the Wibautstraat, allowing through traffic to continue without interruption.
The connection between the Westkolkdijk and the N516 will also be relocated to a new junction near the Vlinderbrug.
Other works include improvements to junction layouts, additional traffic lanes near the connections with the A8 motorway and new infrastructure for cyclists and pedestrians.
These improvements include safer crossing facilities, such as a new cycle and pedestrian bridge near the Ambacht business district and improved cycling infrastructure along the route.
With these measures, the project partners aim not only to reduce traffic congestion but also to improve the accessibility and quality of life in the surrounding area.
The project will provide smoother traffic flow for cars and buses while improving comfort and safety for cyclists and pedestrians.
Attention is also being paid to the quality of the public space, including improvements to landscaping, greenery and water features in the area surrounding the Thorbeckeweg.
The redevelopment of the Thorbeckeweg – N516 is intended to improve the long-term accessibility of Zaandam and the surrounding region.
By investing in road safety, traffic flow and infrastructure, the project will create a stronger transport connection for residents, businesses and visitors.
The result will be a route that is better equipped to accommodate the continued growth of Zaanstad and the mobility demands of the coming years.
Client: Municipality of Zaanstad
Construction consortium: Boskalis