Development of the RAI area and community participation for local residents

Area Development

RAI Amsterdam aims to enhance and renew the RAI area, making it even more valuable. This transformation will impact everyone connected to the RAI, from clients to local residents of Amsterdam. The area, the buildings, and the logistics need to become more sustainable and modern. New features will also be added to make the entire RAI area more enjoyable and attractive for different groups. Additionally, the RAI area is set to become a place where diverse functions come together, such as living, working, and green spaces with room for social interactions, strengthening its connection with the surrounding neighbourhoods.

Municipality of Amsterdam’s Guiding Principles Document

Around 25 October 2024, all residents and business owners in the RAI vicinity will have received a letter from the Municipality of Amsterdam (Zuidas). This letter explains the recent release of a guiding principles document by the municipality regarding the RAI area’s development, outlining the framework and goals for the transformation plan. Both the Municipality of Amsterdam and the RAI believe in the importance of a thriving RAI area within a thriving city and see renewal as essential. You can view the residents' letter and the guiding principles document here (Dutch only). 

Area Development Plan

The next step involves the RAI beginning to work on the first phase of a plan and drafting a timeline. This plan will provide an initial vision of how the development might look, though it is not yet a final design.

Community Participation Process

RAI Amsterdam would like to hear what the local community and other stakeholders consider important in creating this area development plan. Therefore, the RAI will soon start a participation process, which will invite residents, business owners, and other involved parties to contribute their ideas on the plans or changes affecting their neighbourhood. The aim is to exchange ideas collaboratively, so the plan can be enriched and better align with the community's values. To better connect the RAI site with the surrounding neighbourhoods and make it a true part of the city, the wishes and opinions of local residents and the community are essential.

In the upcoming period, RAI Amsterdam will actively inform local residents, surrounding communities, and other interested parties about the next steps and activities designed to involve as many stakeholders as possible in the area’s development. Updates will be provided via the website, community newsletters, social media, door-to-door letters, and emails, aiming to reach as many people as possible.

If you have any questions in the meantime, please feel free to send an email to buren@rai.nl