The intersection of Elandsgracht and Marnixstraat has recorded 30 bicycle accidents over five years, making it the most accident-prone spot for cyclists in Amsterdam.
Road users arrive from all directions, creating heavy chaos particularly during the morning rush hour between 8:00 and 9:00.
Without traffic lights, road users rely strictly on road markings and their own knowledge of traffic rules.
Concerns over congestion and red-light jumping
The city council has deliberately chosen not to install traffic lights at the junction.
City spokesperson Barbara Verhallen explained that the sheer volume of cyclists would cause severe gridlock if lights were introduced.
Because many trams and buses cross the junction, waiting times for other road users would increase significantly.
Officials also expressed concern that cyclists and motorists might ignore red lights, leading to a false sense of safety.
Previous layout changes and recent updates
The municipality acknowledges the intersection is complex and dangerous, having redesigned it in 2019 by widening the water-side bike path and adding pedestrian refuge islands.
Recent adjustments this past summer included repainted road markings and new warning signs for trams and buses.
Behavioural psychologist Karlijn Hoyer noted that road users face heavy sensory overload from tram and car noises, making it difficult to anticipate hazards.
Hoyer suggested that the city must determine whether accidents stem from the junction layout or speeding, which might be better addressed with a speed camera rather than traffic lights.
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