The Supply, Use and Quality of Randstad Holland’s Transportation Networks in Comparative Perspective

Accessibility is considered a major determinant of the economic competitiveness of metropolitan areas. Comparison with Germany’s Rhine–Ruhr area and Belgium’s Antwerp–Brussels–Ghent region on three accessibility factors may help to put Randstad’s position on this issue into perspective. The supply of transportation infrastructure is analysed by means of an assessment of the density, structure and capacity of the motorways, regional roads, railways and urban rail network. Randstad shows a medium level density of the motorway network, with a relatively low capacity when related to the number of residents within the region. The high number of motorway exits, however, compensates for the limited regional road network. The rail network density in Randstad is also relatively limited. Road and rail networks are used intensively in Randstad, when compared to the other regions. The resulting quality of transportation networks is quite good, but the faster population growth, and the limited remaining capacity and lack of alternative routes questions the future adequacy of these networks.