Renovation of Heinenoord Tunnel Completed After Two Years

The Heinenoord Tunnel on the A29, a critical link between Rotterdam and Bergen op Zoom, reopened to traffic Saturday at 11:30 p.m. after a two-year renovation project, Rijkswaterstaat confirmed on X.

The tunnel, first opened in 1969, underwent extensive upgrades to improve safety and infrastructure. The project included the installation of a middentunnelkanaal, a sealed escape route with doors connecting the tunnel tubes. Concrete walls were repaired, new asphalt laid, and modern systems such as LED lighting, ventilation, cameras, and speakers were installed.

Additional improvements included new emergency stations, drainage systems, and asbestos removal at the junctions between tunnel elements. The renovations also involved updates to the light grilles and sewer systems.

The Heinenoord Tunnel, essential for freight traffic between Rotterdam and Antwerp ports, was closed multiple weekends throughout the renovation. It is the first of eight major tunnels in South Holland scheduled for upgrades in the coming years.

The reopening was announced by Rijkswaterstaat on X: “The Heinenoord Tunnel is open again! Thanks to everyone involved for the hard work over the past two years.”