Traffic Disruptions Expected on Dutch Highways Due to Funding Shortfalls
Dutch motorists should brace for increased traffic delays on highways as funding shortages hamper essential road maintenance and repairs. Rijkswaterstaat, the Dutch public works agency, is facing significant financial constraints, leading to postponed repairs and temporary traffic measures.
Delays Caused by Deferred Maintenance
The lack of sufficient funds is causing delays in addressing (frost) damage to road surfaces. Several highway sections have been affected by lane closures and speed restrictions. As of March 26, 2026, the following closures are in effect:
- A2 near Abcoude: The entrance ramp towards Amsterdam has been closed since Friday evening.
- A1 near Hengelo: An entrance ramp and the right lane towards the west have been closed indefinitely due to asphalt damage.
These closures are not isolated incidents, with similar disruptions occurring frequently in recent weeks and expected to continue.
Temporary Measures to Prioritize Safety
Rijkswaterstaat is now evaluating repair needs on a case-by-case basis, prioritizing urgent repairs. When immediate repairs are not feasible due to budgetary limitations, temporary measures will be implemented to maintain safety. These measures may include:
- Reduced speed limits
- Restrictions on heavy goods vehicles
- Lane closures
Significant Infrastructure Funding Gap
The current financial difficulties are not modern. Minister Karremans and State Secretary Bertram of Infrastructure and Water Management recently raised concerns about the lack of funding for road, bridge, and infrastructure maintenance. A report by the Netherlands Court of Auditors estimated a shortfall of 20.5 billion euros for road transport alone between now and 2038.1
Impact on Repair Prioritization
Due to the financial constraints, Rijkswaterstaat is focusing on safety-critical repairs and temporary fixes. Longer-term renewal projects are being delayed or postponed. The agency will determine which maintenance projects will be prioritized before the summer.2
Motorists are advised to stay informed about traffic conditions and allow extra travel time.3