The Oostlijn, or Eastern Line, is the oldest line on the Amsterdam metro, and after 30 years of service it’s in need of renovation. This is a large-scale, intensive project, requiring close cooperation between DIVV (Dienst Infrastructuur Verkeer en Vervoer – Infrastructure and Transport Department), central government, the regional administration and the city of Amsterdam. DIVV asked Movares to provide a project manager with extensive technical and commercial experience in the rail/light rail sector who also had experience of working in a large-scale organization at local government level.

Renovation of the Oostlijn, the metro line that runs from Amsterdam Centraal to Amstel, Gein and Gaasperplas, forms part of the major Amsterdam metro replacement programme. This is the first project within that programme. Over the next four years, stations will be renovated, existing metro installations above and below ground will be replaced and tunnel safety will be enhanced. In addition, the tracks, technical systems and platforms will be modernized. In addition to safety and maintenance, the project will address crime prevention, comfort and aesthetics. The entire line will be modernized/replaced in a number of short but intensive possessions. These must be carried out in such a way as to minimize disruption for customers. The project is also challenging from a political point of view, making good communication with the council committee and alderman essential.

The project manager manages the DIVV project team and is responsible for managing the contractors and suppliers with which DIVV has signed or will sign contracts as part of the project. The project manager is also responsible for informing and advising the city council and representing the project during meetings at city council level and in dealings with the tunnel safety committee.

Movares provided a project manager with experience of technical and contract management who also had extensive experience of working with large organizations at local government level.