An impressive step in the Multimodal Hub Schiphol (MHS) project was taken last week. Part of the roof of the train tunnel was removed to make space for three new stairways to the bus terminal above. No fewer than 11 concrete sections weighing 14,000 kilos each were hoisted from the roof – a fine example of workmanship!
An operation like this is anything but simple. But it was a success thanks to a tight schedule and good coordination between all parties involved. Schiphol is working closely with Amsterdam Transport Authority, bus operators and ProRail. Main contractor BAM and subcontractors are carrying out the work in two separate contracts. Only with teamwork can we organise the construction so that travellers have as little trouble from us as possible.
Jeffrey, projectmanager at Schiphol, explains: “When you are sitting on the bus, you don’t see what is happening behind the construction fences. It’s amazing that we lift concrete blocks weighing 14.000 kilos from the tunnel roof while people travel without any problems. Train passengers also don’t notice that we cut big holes in the tunnel roof, because the lifting times are carefully planned to fit train arrivals and departures.”
In mid-December we will remove the third and final section of tunnel roof and start building the new stairways. When that is finished, the construction of the updated bus station will be built above the stairways. Travellers will be able to make use of this new connection as of October 2027. It will soon be easy to transfer from train to bus and avoid the crowds at Plaza.
This project is happening at the heart of Schiphol, right in the middle of the bus station at Plaza and Jan Dellaertplein. Take a look from the walkway and see how the future bus station is taking shape.