The Blue Carpet

The Blue Carpet (officially Pieter Smit Bridge) is an 800-meter bicycle bridge connecting Blauwestad to Winschoten, spanning a lake, canal, motorway, and nature reserve. The path measures 3.5 meters wide with a gentle 2.5 percent gradient suitable for both cyclists and pedestrians.

Construction started in 2020 as part of the Blauwestad development project, which transformed agricultural land into residential areas centered around a lake. This initiative reshaped the region by creating new communities and connecting previously isolated areas.

The bridge is named after a former Oldambt mayor who supported regional development, and it now serves as a daily connection between two communities that were previously separated. Locals use it as a main route for cycling between residential and commercial areas.

The path is well-surfaced throughout with a consistent width that accommodates cyclists and pedestrians safely. Allow time for the crossing since the full length is noticeable when walking or cycling.

The bridge features specialized LED lighting and blue paint designed specifically to help local bat populations navigate between their nature reserve and Oldambtmeer lake. This lighting uses colors and wavelengths that assist bats while being less disruptive to human users.