Major makeover of Amersfoort Centraal begins, includes underground bike parking
Construction officially kicked off this week on a large-scale renovation of the Stationsplein at Amersfoort Centraal, a project set to last through the end of 2029 and deliver a major upgrade in bicycle infrastructure, public space, and accessibility, ProRail reports.
At the heart of the plan is a new underground bicycle garage with space for 4,800 bikes and 400 OV-fietsen (public transport rental bikes), designed to eliminate the current parking shortage and support the city’s rapid growth. The square in front of the station will also be transformed into a greener, more welcoming space.
The project was marked Monday, May 26, by a ceremonial unveiling of a construction sign featuring the new plaza design. Attending the event were Amersfoort alderman for mobility Tyas Bijlholt, ProRail regional director Harro Homan, and NS regional director Irma Winkenius.
Homan acknowledged the challenges: “Travelers, business owners, and residents will certainly notice the work. We saw this last year during the replacement of the escalators and large-scale track maintenance. We’re again asking for understanding, because this is how we move forward together—toward a spacious, comfortable bicycle garage with direct access to the station hall, and a plaza that fits the Amersfoort of today and tomorrow.”
“This is a real milestone,” Bijlholt said. “Thousands of new homes are being built in the station area. Our growing city truly needs a station with a larger bike parking facility and a green public space where people feel comfortable.”
In 2023, Amersfoort Centraal was named the best railway station in Europe. The city itself was voted City of the Year in 2024. But the station plaza has lagged behind in quality and functionality.
Renovation work starts in June and is expected to continue through late 2029. According to the city and project partners, the work is being done in a tight and active space. The station, surrounding roads, and facilities will remain in use throughout construction.
The current underground bike parking will remain accessible for now, but cyclists are being asked to use alternative sites at Mondriaanplein, Smallepad, and Barchman Wuytierslaan. The city says these areas have sufficient capacity.
The taxi stand is being moved to the other side of the station, to Piet Mondriaanplein. According to the municipality, it is still unclear whether the taxi rank will return to the Stationsplein after the project is completed.
ProRail’s Homan emphasized the importance of keeping the public informed during the five-year project. “With strong cooperation and clear communication through the BouwApp [Construction App], we’ll make sure everyone knows what’s going on.”
