The province of Noord-Brabant and the municipality of Alphen-Chaam have agreed to hold a pilot with innovative lighting along the cycle path of the N639. The municipality will install the lighting between Chaam and Ulvenhout for the winter. The one-off pilot is intended to investigate whether this new method of illuminating cycle paths can reduce the feeling of insecurity for cyclists, without jeopardizing other interests, such as motorists' road safety, nature interests and reduction of energy consumption.

Provincial Executive Christophe van der Maat: 'It is an interesting experiment that could lead to a change in policy regarding the maintenance of the provincial infrastructure. In addition, it is of course nice that this also addresses the feeling of insecurity '

Along the N639 between Chaam and Ulvenhout in the province of Brabant there were lampposts, but according to provincial policy they were removed from the reconstruction in 2019. The scattered light from the main lane lighting that fell on the bicycle path also disappeared. This led to a feeling of insecurity among cyclists, including many school-aged youth. Subsequently, deputy Christophe van der Maat and alderman Frank van Raak of the municipality of Alphen-Chaam agreed that the municipality would make a proposal for innovative lighting of the cycle path.

The light shines harder or softer at different times and places and the selective lighting can be controlled remotely. The province will contribute 90.000 euros to the pilot, while the municipality will be responsible for the management and maintenance during the life of the installation. The pilot will be evaluated in September 2021.

Alderman Van Raak is enthusiastic about the support of the province. 'We are very happy that we can start installing the lighting along the bicycle path on the provincial road before the start of the winter period. With a clearly visible cycle path, we give our school-going youth a safe feeling on the way to school. '

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