The Verbindingsdam in the Eastern Docklands of Amsterdam was the railroad link between manmade harbour islands and a vast switchyard. For this reason, the dam and bridge traverses the water obliquely instead of going straight across.

The islands and railway yard have been redeveloped into residential areas. The railroad became tramway and capacity for other forms of traffic had to be increased. The islands had to remain accessible at all times, so the design of the bridge is in two parts to allow phased construction. To emphasize the “bridge” character, the original flat girders were replaced by arches.

Compared to its span, the bridge is extremely wide. Separating the deck into three parts provides a spatial modulation. The bridge deck is supported by beams that are suspended from above with cables running through the slits in the deck.

By night the road is illuminated from above. Spotlights from underneath cast a glow on the white painted steel construction.