ROTTERDAM, 11 April 2025 – A tram connection is being considered for Rotterdam's future city bridge, aiming to shorten travel time between Zuidplein and Kralingse Zoom. Authorities believe this choice will better support expected growth in housing and mobility.
New city bridge in Rotterdam likely to include tram route
A tram connection has been identified as the preferred public transport mode for the future city bridge (stadsbrug) planned in Rotterdam. The tram is expected to link Zuidplein to Kralingse Zoom within approximately 15 minutes. The decision was made jointly by the municipality of Rotterdam, the Metropolitan Region Rotterdam The Hague (MRDH), and the Dutch ministries of Infrastructure and Water Management and Housing and Spatial Planning.
Preference based on capacity and sustainability
According to the involved parties, the tram was preferred due to its ability to carry more passengers per ride and its potential to be integrated more sustainably into the urban environment. The final decision will be subject to further assessment of several practical and financial conditions.
The proposed city bridge aims to strengthen the connection between Rotterdam Zuid and the northern parts of the city. It is also expected to facilitate mobility for future residents of the Oostflank area, where an estimated 30,000 new homes are planned.
Tim Versnel, alderman for the municipality of Rotterdam, stated: “I am pleased that all parties have agreed on the tram as the best option for the new city bridge. The tram suits Rotterdam’s character, fits well into the existing public transport network, offers greater capacity, and can be scaled up if ridership increases.”
Martina Huijsmans, MRDH regional executive, added: “With the growth in housing, employment, and travellers in our region, integrating different forms of mobility is essential. A well-accessible and strong public transport network plays a vital role. By opting for a fast tram link over the new bridge, we are taking a significant step towards improved accessibility.”
Tram versus Bus Rapid Transit
The decision followed extensive research that compared the tram with a Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system—a rubber-tyred bus operating on a dedicated lane, similar in appearance to a tram. Experts evaluated the pros and cons of both options, with input from local councils and resident organisations along the proposed route. Ultimately, the tram was favoured.
Before a final decision is made, several conditions still need to be addressed. These include the tram’s integration with Zuidplein’s metro and bus stations, alignment with existing financial agreements, and a shared approach between the municipality and MRDH regarding annual operational, maintenance, and management costs.
Further development of station and route plans
With the tram now the preferred option, the City Bridge and Public Transport (Stadsbrug en OV) project team can proceed with route planning and development of the proposed station at Stadionpark. An ambitions document for the bridge will also be drafted, involving input from residents and neighbourhood councils.
By the end of 2026, it must be determined whether the designs and projected costs of the bridge, tram route, and station fit within established political agreements and budgets. Simultaneously, a design process will commence for the new Stadionpark station, which will feature new rail tracks, tram stops, crossings, and a redesigned station area. Residents will be closely involved in this phase.
About the project
The Stadsbrug en OV initiative is part of a national infrastructure and planning programme (MIRT) and is a joint effort by the ministries of Infrastructure and Water Management, Housing and Spatial Planning, MRDH, and the municipality of Rotterdam.
More details can be found on the official project website: rotterdam.nl/stadsbrug-en-ov
Location and directions
The future bridge and tram route will connect key locations in Rotterdam-Zuid to the eastern and northern parts of the city, passing through areas such as Stadionpark, Zuidplein, and Kralingse Zoom. Stadionpark, located near the Feijenoord area and De Kuip stadium, is served by public transport and surrounded by residential and recreational developments.
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