The international design and consultancy firm Arcadis has been commissioned by the Department of Mobility and Public Works, Maritime Access Division, to carry out the full study assignment for the E34-West Mobility Project. This project aims to improve transport infrastructure between the Waaslandhaven and the R2, with the goal of stimulating economic growth, mobility, and quality of life in the region.
Waaslandhaven, located on the left bank of the Scheldt, is an essential part of the Port of Antwerp, Belgium’s economic engine. To keep this important port future-proof and efficiently accessible, a major improvement in transport infrastructure is necessary. The E34-West Mobility Project plays a key role in this by creating safe and efficient connections between the port and surrounding regions.
Besides mobility, the project also focuses on sustainability. The design takes into account the landscape and ecological characteristics of the polder area, with attention to water management and limiting flood risks. The project is an integral part of the Toekomstverbond (Future Agreement) and is crucial for the Extra Container Capacity Antwerp (ECA) project, which aims to strengthen the economic position of the port.
Multidisciplinary Approach by Arcadis
Arcadis is responsible for a multidisciplinary approach in which mobility, sustainability, and innovative technologies are central. The project includes:
- New Connection: Linking the Western Access Waaslandhaven (WOW) to the E34 for more efficient traffic.
- Redesign of Interchanges: Reconfiguring junctions such as the R2-E34 to improve traffic flow and separate port traffic from local traffic.
- Innovative Traffic Complexes: New complexes such as Waaslandhaven-West and Watermolen, designed for increased road safety and efficiency.
- Cycling Network: Expanding the cycling network, including the F41 cycle highway, tunnels, and bridges to promote sustainable mobility.
- Landscape Integration and Water Management: Construction of a green buffer dike and reed canal to harmonize nature and infrastructure.
Additionally, Arcadis makes use of advanced digital tools, such as BIM, GIS, and integrated cost management, to increase the efficiency and quality of the project.
The Department of Mobility and Public Works chose Arcadis because of its extensive experience with complex mobility projects, both nationally and internationally. Arcadis’ integrated and sustainable approach, which centers on ecology, climate adaptation, and future-oriented design, fits perfectly with the project’s objectives. Arcadis is supported by OMGEVING for landscape design and by Createlli for environmental management.
Lieve Neirynck, BA Director Mobility Belgium at Arcadis, explains:
“This project is an important step in our mission to realize safe, sustainable, and smooth mobility and resilient infrastructure locally and globally. It is not only crucial for mobility in the Waaslandhaven and the connection to the E34, but also contributes to the quality of life in the area. With a well-developed cycling network, a green buffer dike, and landscape integration, we bring nature and infrastructure into harmony. Moreover, the project plays a key role in the ECA project, which supports extra container capacity for the Port of Antwerp. In this way, we are building a livable and sustainable future together while strengthening the economy.”
