Ramspol Bridge, Drawbridge between Noordoostpolder and Overijssel, Netherlands
The Ramspol Bridge crosses the Ramsdiep with a total length of 550 meters and carries four traffic lanes at a deck height of 13 meters above the water. The construction links the Noordoostpolder with the mainland of Overijssel and allows both motor traffic and cyclists to cross without interruption.
The first permanent crossing opened in 1949 as a narrow construction with two traffic lanes and bicycle paths on both sides. The current bridge replaced the previous structure and expanded capacity to four lanes for growing regional traffic.
The name comes from the Ramsdiep, the channel between the two provinces that once separated the Zuiderzee from the mainland. The deck height allows ship traffic to pass freely while drivers and cyclists cross both shores without waiting times.
The crossing is open to pedestrians, cyclists and motor vehicles at all times, without closures or waiting periods. Traffic increases on summer weekends, particularly on Sundays when day trippers visit the region.
Solar panels on both sides supply power to the bridge lighting and make it energy self-sufficient. This installation was the first of its kind for a Dutch traffic bridge and generates enough energy for all its own needs.
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