Swietelsky at Amsterdam Zuid Station

Station Amsterdam Zuid is the hub of accessibility in the Randstad and the fastest-growing station in the Netherlands. Behind the scenes of this massive infrastructure project (part of the Zuidasdok programme), a logistical and technical masterpiece is unfolding. Swietelsky Rail Benelux is the 'silent force' here. While the outside world primarily sees the enormous concrete viaducts and cranes rising, our teams ensure that the track system flexibly moves with the construction and that trains and metros can continue to run safely.

The transformation of Amsterdam Zuid

Station Amsterdam Zuid is the fastest-growing station in the Netherlands. To accommodate the massive passenger flows and guarantee the accessibility of Amsterdam and the northern Randstad, the station is being redeveloped into a high-quality Public Transport Terminal (OVT).
When the lanes of the A10 South highway go underground, no less than 120,000 m² of above-ground space will be freed up (equivalent to 24 football fields) for squares, green areas, and walking routes.

Silent force of the project

As a permanent partner of Bouwcombinatie Nieuw-Zuid, Swietelsky plays a crucial, facilitating role. To make the enormous civil constructions possible (such as sliding in the gigantic roof decks for the passenger tunnels), the existing track and metro infrastructure must temporarily make way and later be rebuilt flawlessly.

Our concrete work includes:

Temporary track removal: Removing track and metro infrastructure to make room for foundation work and sliding in the decks for the new Brittenpassage.
Track and platform reconstruction: Permanently rebuilding and adjusting the tracks and platforms after the civil elements have been placed.
A10 South adaptation: Temporarily removing a portion of the A10 highway to install underlying piles and abutments.
Integrated engineering: Complete deployment of our disciplines—track, platforms, overhead lines, cables & ducts, and signaling & power supply—to ensure the track system functions seamlessly immediately after each possession.

"You see the major civil works immediately. The track work takes place more in the background, even though it is essential to keep the trains and metros running."

Working on a postage stamp under time pressure

Working in the heart of the Amsterdam Zuidas means building in one of the most dynamic and densely populated areas of the Netherlands. Physical space is extremely limited, while train, metro, and road traffic must continue to flow uninterrupted . Because dozens of parties are active simultaneously in a small area, logistical coordination is critical. Plans that look tight on paper require continuous adjustments and flexibility in practice.

Between September 2022 and the end of 2026, there is a possession almost every month. Within these extremely tight and strictly regulated time windows, the work must be executed flawlessly. The pressure is high: as soon as the possession ends, public transport must resume immediately.

Strength through collaboration & integration

What makes this project unique for Swietelsky is the intensive collaboration and broad internal involvement. Virtually all disciplines within our organization work together under one roof here. This creates a strong team dynamic where colleagues quickly support and step in for each other when needed.

Due to the technical complexity and constant coordination between different disciplines and stakeholders, Zuidasdok is a unique practical school where our employees rapidly grow in their roles and expertise.

And although Swietelsky formally acts as a subcontractor, the project feels like a joint achievement with Bouwcombinatie Nieuw-Zuid. There is an atmosphere of mutual trust and short lines of communication to respond immediately to unexpected situations.

Future outlook

Work at the Zuidas is a continuous process that develops in phases. As soon as the new Brittenpassage is opened by 2027 at the latest, the renovation of the current Minervapassage will begin, which will be made three times wider and significantly higher. This means that Swietelsky will continue to play a leading and active role in one of the most prominent mobility projects in the Netherlands in the coming years . Together, we are building the future of travel.

Want to watch the progress live?

Follow the work closely via the Zuidasdok webcam: Watch the Live Webcam