Where in Zuidas
The completely relandscaped Europaplein-Oost, the square in front of the RAI, was originally scheduled for completion at the end of June 2022. That will now be late October. The delay has been caused by the underground water-retention system that we are installing underneath the square. This enables rainwater to be absorbed more effectively, reducing the likelihood of flooding after heavy rainfall. However, installing it is taking longer than expected. This is because, in our schedule, we assumed that several different works on the square could be completed simultaneously. In practice, this is not proving possible, which means they have to be done consecutively. That is causing the delay.
Nine fewer parking spaces
Another setback involves the addition of parking spaces along the Europaplein-Oost service road. We were unable to include nine of the 55 parking spaces that originally featured in the design. In the case of six of them, this was because the trees along the road proved to have larger roots than expected. These roots are also closer to the surface than usual, preventing us from laying paving. The other three parking spaces were supposed to be in President Kennedylaan. However, this space is needed for Amsterdam Rainproof measures, for the programme that aims to future-proof the city, enabling it to cope with extreme rainfall.
Two charging spaces available as regular parking
A total of 46 parking spaces have been created, including six charging stations for electric vehicles. In order to compensate to some extent for the reduction in the number of parking spaces, two of the charging spaces can be used for regular parking for the time being. These are the two next to number 105, where there is no sign on the charging station. In the period ahead, we will assess whether the parking situation needs adjustment and will of course keep you posted on the results.
Works schedule
In the period up to the end of October, the installation of the water retention system will be completed. In August, we will begin laying the green square. In late September or early October, we will put the Virtual Fountains artwork by Femke Schaap into position, followed in October by playground equipment. We will do the final work on the square in late October. The work that still needs to be done is not likely to cause major disruption in terms of access to housing around Europaplein-Oost. The contractor is doing its utmost to keep noise disruption from the work to a minimum.
Walk-in meeting
Any other questions? We will be happy to answer them at a walk-in meeting.
Date: Wednesday 6 July
Time: 17.30 – 18.30
Location: Europaplein-Oost, service road
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