Green Carpet: multi-purpose use of space
- Client Municipality of Maastricht, DPW
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Country
The Netherlands
- Location Maastricht
- Status Delivered
Double-layered tunnel yields triple benefits
A final end to the traffic problems for the Municipality of Maastricht, a cleaner and safer living climate and new space for modern urban development. Avenue2 is a textbook example of a project in which advanced infrastructural solutions and high-quality civil works integrally reinforce each other.
The division of tasks within Avenue2 – a consortium of Strukton and Ballast Nedam – called for Strukton to assume responsibility for infrastructure, such as the tunnel, access roads and exits, and civil works for the renewal of the traffic system across a six-kilometre distance. These activities went hand-in-hand with the development of real estate, a task managed by Ballast Nedam. For the client it was crucial for the project to be carried out as a cohesive whole in terms of mobility and liveability. The planning process and construction involved intense cooperation with all stakeholders.
A final end to the traffic problems for the Municipality of Maastricht, which result in a cleaner and safer living climate
The 2.3-kilometre long King Willem Alexander Tunnel is one of the first tunnels that complies with the latest European safety guidelines, which in the Netherlands have been translated into the Tunnel Standard.
A number of junctions with traffic lights at the East of Maastricht. That was the reality of the A2 motorway in Maastricht. A real traffic sewer. The Maastricht A2 project solves this problem with Avenue2's 'De Groene Loper' (The Green Carpet) plan due to its multiple spatial use. A double-layered tunnel was constructed below the city, that can be used bij passenger cars, as well as freight traffic. An unique concept in Europe. A third layer – The Green Carpet – was constructed on top of the tunnel. This new recreational connection, lined by linden trees, is reserved for destination traffic. A pedestrian and bicycle path has been constructed in the centre. New residential districts are rising up on both sides. This way the area underwent a metamorphosis. From traffic sewer to The Green Carpet.
The 2.3-kilometre long King Willem Alexander Tunnel is one of the first tunnels that complies with the latest European safety guidelines, which in the Netherlands have been translated into the Tunnel Standard. The tunnel was fitted with technical traffic and tunnel systems (VTTI), for rapid accident and malfunction detection. Lighting and emergency exits are designed for rapid evacuation. A risk analysis demonstrated that it is best to route the transport of hazardous goods through the tunnel. This is why the tunnel is accessible to all traffic.
Images of the Groene Loper
Images of the Groene Loper
Noorderbrugtracé Maastricht
