ROTTERDAM, 23 September 2025 – Work has started on the Daniel den Hoedbrug, a new pedestrian bridge linking Erasmus MC with Familiehuis Daniel den Hoed in Little C. The 100-metre bridge will provide patients and families with a faster and safer route across the city.
Image: Artist impression of Daniel den Hoed bridge. Photo credit: wUrck
A safe connection across the city
The bridge will remove the need to cross the busy ’s-Gravendijkwal, making it easier for guests of the Familiehuis to reach Erasmus MC. When completed, it will also connect the Tuschinskipark at Coolhaven with the Museumpark via a public passage through the hospital. Delivery is expected in early 2027.
Alderman Pascal Lansink-Bastemeijer said: “This bridge brings patients and families closer together in a safe and accessible way. It is for everyone to use, but its meaning is especially strong for those receiving treatment and their loved ones.”
Honouring Daniel den Hoed
The bridge is named after Dr Daniel den Hoed (1897–1950), a pioneering Rotterdam oncologist regarded as the founder of radiotherapy in the Netherlands. The former Daniel den Hoedkliniek in Rotterdam-Zuid carried his name until it became part of Erasmus MC.
His granddaughter, Susanne den Hoed, said: “This bridge symbolises connection – between patients and families who need each other. It is moving that it carries his name, and it ensures his legacy continues.”
Role of the Familiehuis
For nearly 35 years, Familiehuis Daniel den Hoed has provided temporary accommodation for relatives and friends of cancer patients treated at Erasmus MC. Patients receiving outpatient care can also stay there. The bridge has been a long-held wish of the Familiehuis and was part of the decision to relocate to Little C.
Director Rachel Maréchal said: “Being able to reach each other within minutes is incredibly important. With this bridge, a promise made years ago is finally becoming reality.”
Funding and design
The bridge will cost €8.8 million. Funding comes from the municipality of Rotterdam, Stichting Daniel den Hoed and KWF Kankerbestrijding. More than €300,000 was raised by the foundation itself, with a major contribution from KWF, including €1.1 million collected during the NN Marathon Rotterdam 2023.
Architects wUrck designed the structure, which will be built by Dura Vermeer using weather-resistant steel and wood. The design includes nest boxes for birds, bats and bees to promote biodiversity. A poem by Rotterdam poet Rien Vroegindeweij will be inscribed in the flooring, while a portrait of Daniel den Hoed by artist Celinda Versluis will appear on the exterior.
Part of Hoboken 2030
The bridge is one element of the municipality’s Gebiedsvisie Hoboken 2030 plan, aimed at developing the area between Delfshaven and the city centre into a high-quality, international living environment. Other projects include the creation of Little C, new green spaces and the continued redevelopment of Erasmus MC.
Location and directions
The Daniel den Hoedbrug will link Familiehuis Daniel den Hoed in Little C with Erasmus MC across the ’s-Gravendijkwal, creating a direct pedestrian connection between Coolhaven and the Museumpark.
