The Dutch government is facing a 5 billion euros budget shortfall for infrastructure projects, according to Minister of Infrastructure and Water Management Barry Madlener (PVV). In a letter to the Tweede Kamer, Madlener outlined the financial gap and warned that difficult choices will be necessary to address the issue.
The deficit affects the Mobility Fund, which finances critical projects such as highway maintenance and public transportation. According to a spokesperson for Madlener, the financial setbacks were already identified during the coalition formation period. At that time, ministries were asked to highlight anticipated funding shortfalls, and infrastructure was flagged as a key area of concern.
A table from the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management had previously identified specific risk areas, including the Zuidas redevelopment project in Amsterdam and the implementation of the European Rail Traffic Management System (ERTMS). However, the spokesperson could not confirm which projects would require additional funding.
“The financial shortfalls have multiple causes,” Madlener wrote in his letter. Some are beyond the ministry’s control, he explained, citing “excessive price increases” as a major factor. The minister assured lawmakers that his department is working to manage costs as efficiently as possible.
The Tweede Kamer will reportedly soon be involved in discussions on how to address the funding gap. Madlener emphasized that the government must make “tough decisions” in the coming months to ensure that essential infrastructure projects can move forward despite the financial strain.