Exploration of future public transportation in Zoetermeer

This year, the Metropolitan Region of Rotterdam Den Haag, the municipality of Zoetermeer and HTM are conducting a study into the future of public transport (ov) in Zoetermeer. The study should provide insight into which public transport services in Zoetermeer best suit Zoetermeer residents. An important part of this decision is a follow-up study: replacement of track safety with a view to future maintenance, upkeep and use of the Krakeling (RandstadRail 3). The study also provides the information needed to replace the RandstadRail Line 4 and Metro Line E track safety system.

Pretzel

The study is a follow-up to a study from 2024 into the lagging passenger growth on the Krakeling (focus on 8 RandstadRail 3 stops in Zoetermeer). This study was a first step to determine what role the Krakeling can play in the future and what the possible measures are. The 3 parties are now investigating these measures further in the study.

Several variants are considered in research

In the exploratory study, the three parties will examine the measures from the earlier study in more detail and in a broader perspective. In addition to investigating the lagging passenger growth, research will also be carried out (in collaboration with the MRDH and HTM) into the 'railroad curve' and 'also driving to the right' variants of the Krakeling (motion 2411-76). The study will also include spatial and socioeconomic developments in Zoetermeer. The focus is on which ov-offer is best suited in Zoetermeer. Good accessibility increases job opportunities and contributes to an attractive living and business climate.

The study should be completed by the end of 2025. The results will also be used for the program of requirements for the replacement of track safety in 2035. The replacement of the rail security is a major investment. It is therefore important to know how the Krakeling will develop over the next 30 years.

The entire meeting can be listened back via: Meeting Bestuurscommissie Vervoersautoriteit 14 May 2025 | MRDH.