Rotterdam has started a trial on the 1st and 2nd Middellandstraat in Delfshaven. Until the end of March 2027, cyclists riding faster than 20 kilometres per hour may choose whether to use the cycle path or the carriageway. The city wants to create more space on the cycle path and reduce dangerous situations.

Why the city is doing it

Residents and cyclists report that the cycle path along the 1st and 2nd Middellandstraat is busy and that many different speeds come together there. Because the path is narrow in places, people often have to overtake each other, which sometimes leads to dangerous situations. The Middelland-Nieuwe Westen district council asked for the trial. The city expects that letting fast cyclists also use the carriageway will bring more calm and safety.

Alderman Chantal Zeegers, whose portfolio includes mobility, said that redesigning streets and widening cycle paths is not always possible because it costs money and time.

Where it applies and who it is for

The trial covers two sections of the street:

  • from Van der Poelstraat to Jan Sonjéstraat, direction west to east;
  • from Duivenvoordestraat to Aleidisstraat, direction east to west.

Cycle path users riding faster than 20 km/h may choose between the path and the carriageway. The city gives these examples:

  • road cyclists and other fast cyclists;
  • e-bike riders;
  • moped riders;
  • fatbikers;
  • drivers of light electric vehicles, such as permitted e-scooters.

What changes on the street

The city is placing temporary traffic signs and blue markings on the road, so that it is clear to everyone where fast cycle path users may ride on the carriageway. The speed limit on the 1st and 2nd Middellandstraat had already been lowered to 30 km/h, which the city says makes it safe for some cyclists to ride on the road.

What happens next

After March 2027 the city will review how the trial went. It will look at the experiences of residents and road users and at whether the traffic situation has become safer and more pleasant. Based on that review, the city will decide how to proceed.