Harmsenbrug, Cable-stayed bascule bridge in Rotterdam port area, Netherlands
The Harmsenbrug is a cable-stayed bascule bridge in the Rotterdam port area that spans across the Hartelkanaal. It features four traffic lanes and a movable central section designed to allow maritime vessels to pass through.
The bridge opened in 1968 as crucial port infrastructure in Rotterdam and was built alongside the Calandbrug. This significantly improved connections between different port areas.
The bridge takes its name from Willem Jacobus Hendrikus Harmsen, a prominent director-general of Rijkswaterstaat who shaped Dutch infrastructure development. His name reflects how individuals have influenced the modern port's evolution.
Visitors can walk or drive across the bridge while observing port activities. Best visited during daylight hours when maritime traffic is most active.
In 2011, a separate bicycle bridge was added, allowing the original bike path to be converted into an extra traffic lane. This solution demonstrates clever adaptation to growing traffic demands.
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