use case
Zeeland is working with DMI to develop public transportation for everyone
From fragmented to connected: in Zeeland, transport is being reinvented as a single smart system for everyone, integrating public transport, target-group transport, and eventually on-demand services. The region is combining fixed public transport lines and WMO transport with flexible, on-demand options.
SOLUTION
"Why have fourteen separately contracted transport services if it can be done in one system?” asks Dirk Grevink, Director of Public Transport Zeeland. In Zeeland, fixed public transport lines are combined with flexible, on-demand transport. Using an app, passengers can book the Flex service, which operates seven days a week from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Riders can board at a hub or be picked up at home. Flex is already running on Schouwen-Duiveland and Noord-Beveland and will soon expand throughout Zeeland.
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION ZEELAND
"With one smart, digital system, we make transportation in Zeeland accessible to everyone."
Smart planning with digital power
The mobility center behind the Flex is located in Terneuzen and handles 1,800 trips daily. "But as we grow to 10,000 rides a day, it will no longer be possible to do it manually," Grevink said. Therefore, a digital planning system was developed that cleverly links each demand and specific supply. With 200 adjustable parameters - from wheelchair needs to detour factor - every trip is planned efficiently and appropriately.
From pilot to province-wide
The approach is unique: one governance structure, one system, and a single joint arrangement in which the province and 13 municipalities collaborate. Budgets are pooled, and responsibilities are shared. “This is truly a systemic change,” says Grevink, “but it is necessary to keep transportation accessible, affordable, and inclusive.”
Supported by IenW
The Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management is co-investing with Zeeland to realize the digital infrastructure for public transport in Zeeland. These investments make it possible to professionalize and scale up technology, planning and governance.
DMI as an implementing partner
"The DMI Program Office is helping us to make it concrete, think scalably and make the right choices," Grevink said. "This includes the idea that public transport could also work in other provinces and that we in Zeeland are working on a wonderful example for the rest of the Netherlands. Thanks in part to DMI."
In short, Zeeland shows what the future of public transportation looks like: smart, inclusive, efficient and scalable.
