Overcoming a difference in height by means of a rolling bike path

Hoofdstukken

1. Overcoming a difference in height by means of a rolling bike path

Pernis, Vondelingenweg, rolling bike path. In Pernis cyclists have to overcome a height difference of 8 metres when crossing the harbour railway line. In order to encourage cyclists local authorities in Rotterdam have constructed a rolling bike path in 2003. The rolling bike path cost 2.25 million Euro. Funding for the rolling bike path was provided by the Rotterdam authorities and the Rotterdam metropolitan district.
2. Location and routes

The rolling bike path is part of the bicycle route from Hoogvliet via Pernis and the Benelux tunnel to Vlaardingen. Between 500 and 1500 cyclists a day use this facility. It is an alternative for the ferry located at a distance and intended in part to overcome the isolation of Pernis. Cyclists can use the rolling bike path to go up and use ‘normal’ ramps to go down.
3. The design

Cyclists have to overcome a height difference of 8 metres. the rolling bike path has a 22% gradient, compared with 57% for the average escalator. As the intended route has a dip, a tunnel was not deemed advisable, from the point of view of social safety.
4. Cyclists dismount

Cyclists are supposed to dismount and go up leading their bike by the hand. To emphasise this, railings have been placed.
5. Upwards only

The rolling bike path is only meant to go up. Cyclists wanting to descend, are to use the ‘normal’ ramps of the overpass. The Harbour Security Service oversees the area with the aid of cameras.
6.Covered

The rolling bike path is covered, but the sides are open. The cover is meant, among other things, to shield the rolling bike path from weather conditions.