The national government wants to make the Netherlands more bicycle-friendly. This is good for people’s health and for the environment.

City Cycling – Amsterdam, The Netherlands

200,000 extra commuters on the bike

The government has set itself the goal of getting 200,000 extra commuters on their bikes or in combination with the public transport during this government period. The coalition agreement states that € 100 million is available for the construction and / or modifications of fast bike routes and bicycle parking facilities.

Climate agreement

In the Climate Agreement of June 2019, the government promises to reserve an additional € 75 million for bicycle parking facilities and smart solutions for extra bicycle parking places.

Cycling policy

The government is committed to a stronger bicycle policy which includes proper use of safety gear such as the helmets – read this comprehensive article regarding helmet reviews. The bicycle has become a fully-fledged means of transport in recent years. This is important because mobility has increased in the Netherlands, both in cities and between cities. Cycling also has all kinds of advantages. It contributes to a better environment, is good for health and reduces traffic jams.

Tour the Force

To strengthen the bicycle policy, governments, market parties, social organizations, and other institutions work together. They do this in the Tour de Force program. The National Cycling Agenda shows the objectives of the Tour de Force. The ambition is 20% more bicycle kilometers in 2027 compared to 2017.

Questions that Tour de Force looks at include:

  • How can we better connect bicycle and public transport?
    How can we use smart technologies for the benefit of the cyclist? Think traffic lights that turn green when a cyclist approaches. Or easily see where there is still room in the bicycle shed. Or a chip in the bicycle to make it easier to find stolen bicycles.
    Can we ensure that the elderly can continue to cycle safely?
    Are there smart ways to pay for expensive bicycle measures?

The national government helps by bringing parties together; have research carried out; to do experiments; adjust rules; to contribute to some measures in cities.