Zoetermeer works on pilot customized transport for better access to Rokkeveen
The municipality of Zoetermeer is preparing a pilot customized transport that should contribute to a better access to the Rokkeveen neighborhood and, in and later phase, a better connection to the Haga Hospital in Zoetermeer. With special attention for residents for whom regular and public transport does not offer a suitable solution. The plans are in line with the ambition of the coalition agreement, 'Doing together what is necessary'.
The pilot is currently in the preparatory phase. This means that work is in progress to elaborate the Program of Requirements, prepare the implementation plan and explore the financial feasibility. The actual implementation of the pilot is planned for the period 2026-2028.The intended goal of the pilot is to offer demand-oriented customized transport as a supplement to existing mobility facilities, for residents who fall between the cracks. Think of people who live too far from a bus stop, but do not qualify for WMO transport.
Implementation pilot by the Inner Course
The municipality intends to have the implementation of the pilot carried out by De Binnenbaan, Zoetermeer's reintegration company. With this choice, the pilot will not only be a mobility project, but also a social project: people with a distance to the labor market will have the opportunity to gain work experience as drivers. This contributes to the flow to regular employment and, at the same time, helps solve shortages in the mobility sector.
Véronique Frinking alderman for Mobility and Health and Welfare says: "With this pilot we are taking a step towards better accessibility for all residents from Rokkeveen and, in the long run, a better connection to the HagaZiekenhuis. Everyone should be able to move freely and independently, even if regular public transport is not an option. With this pilot we not only want to improve accessibility, but also combat loneliness. A ride to the store, an appointment or just a visit: it is often the little things that make the difference in someone's life."
Bouke Velzen Alderman for Social Affairs and Work adds: "What makes this pilot special is that we are linking mobility to new opportunities for people looking for work. By training them to become drivers, we are working on sustainable participation, solutions to personnel shortages in the mobility sector and helping them take a step towards the labor market. This is how we create movement together. Literally and figuratively."
