A50 hard shoulder suitable for bus transport in 2026

Rijkswaterstaat is one step closer to the possibility of allowing buses to bypass traffic jams on the A50 as well. The work to configure the hard shoulder for this purpose was recently awarded to VGB Asfalt. They will start work this year to make the A50 between the Ekkersweijer junction and Nistelrode suitable for bus transport in both directions. They previously ensured that the bus can also bypass traffic jams on the A67 and the A2.

A bus cannot simply drive onto the hard shoulder during a traffic jam. We first implement safety measures to prevent this. Only then can bus transport on the hard shoulder and a safe stopping place for breakdowns coexist effectively.

Emergency lay-bys, crossings and signs

On the stretch between Ekkersweijer and Nistelrode, Rijkswaterstaat is therefore constructing several emergency lay-bys with sufficient lighting in case a road user becomes stranded there. Emergency lay-bys will be installed in both directions on this section of the A50. There will be 10 heading south and 12 heading north. At the junctions in Veghel, Eerde, and Son en Breugel, we are creating special crossings for buses to allow them to easily pass the junction via a crossing from the exit to the entrance. Finally, we are installing signs so that road users know that a bus is permitted to drive on the hard shoulder in the event of a traffic jam. More information regarding these works and a specific schedule will follow later.

Encourage the use of public transport

Bus on the hard shoulder (BoV) is a measure that allows buses to use the hard shoulder during traffic jams. In this way, Rijkswaterstaat, the Province of North Brabant, and Brainport Bereikbaar are trying to encourage the use of public transport. This contributes to the accessibility of the Brainport region and the reduction of CO2 emissions. We expect that private company bus traffic will also start using the hard shoulder.

Exemption

Therefore, transport operators require an exemption to drive on the hard shoulder. Public transport and private collective transport for the benefit of employees and/or students can apply for an exemption for this. Employers and educational institutions are assisted by Brainport Bereikbaar. Rijkswaterstaat assesses and ultimately grants the exemption.