Motorway A16 De Groene Boog

For Rijkswaterstaat, BESIX Nederland contributed to an infrastructure solution that improves accessibility and quality of life in the Rotterdam region. The new connection runs along the northeastern edge of the city. Within the De Groene Boog consortium, BESIX Nederland helped deliver a motorway carefully integrated into the urban and natural environment, addressing long-term mobility needs. The infrastructure was opened in October 2025. BESIX remains involved throughout the entire maintenance phase.

De Groene Boog consortium, comprising BESIX, Dura Vermeer, Van Oord, Croonwolter&dros and Mobilis, was responsible for the design, construction and financing of the motorway and tunnel, as well as a 20‑year maintenance period. The works included the construction of two 400‑metre viaducts using the incremental launching method to maintain traffic flow, along with a 2.2‑kilometre semi‑underground, energy‑neutral tunnel powered by on‑site renewable energy. The project applied a strong sustainability approach to reduce CO₂ emissions, protect local wildlife and integrate the motorway into its surroundings.

The project includes the construction of a 100% CO₂ neutral tunnel by applying smart solutions for the electricity, heating and lighting required. The lighting will ensure optimum safety. Wherever possible, sunlight will stream in through grilles and fibre-glass panels. Special LED lighting will also be installed. At the entrance to the tunnel, the lanes and walls will be painted in a light color to maximize reflection. The energy will come from solar panels, while residual heat will be stored in the ground and released when required. All this enables the project to make energy savings of 47%.

• New motorway in Rotterdam

• 2.2 km semi‑underground tunnel, 100% CO₂ neutral

• Two 400 m viaducts built using the incremental launching method

• Design, build, financing and 20‑year maintenance contract

• Sustainability focus: CO₂ reduction, wildlife protection and landscape integration