An interview with Gert-Jan van Amerongen about challenges for the city of Amsterdam
What does Amsterdam mean for you as a Smart City?
An approachable group of young people that supports promoters that want to make Amsterdam a bit smarter, cleaner and more livable. ASC helps to connect different parties, but also demonstrates projects in which you can participate as an initiator. Because of the communication of ASC and her its network your brand awareness becomes larger.
What challenges do you see in the city and what would you change?
The city of Amsterdam can and should deal much better with the expansion of the city. How we look at real estate (investment) is still very traditional. There is a lot that can be improved. When buildings are constructed people don’t consider sequent users. Postwar districts are restructured (demolished) and rebuild. We don’t have or know a concept yet that can be transformed with a small adjustment for changing demand. And I am not even talking about the CO2 footprint of the current construction system.
Can you tell more about your connection with Amsterdam Smart City and the area on the picture?
I enjoy the diversity of developments in Amsterdam (and especially to see the differences between city districts). I live in New-West near the Sloterplas. It is interesting to see how the Ringzone-West has transformed over the past few years. It is interesting how an image of a place can change. Personally I was involved in the start of Arrival Place. A sustainable temporary container village that will contribute to the station area of Lelylaan and make it more attractive and pleasant.
About Gert-Jan van Amerongen
Gert-Jan van Amerongen studied human Geography and Urban Planning. After his bachelor he did a master in Real Estate. He worked for different developers. He Currently he is busy with Finch Buildings and work as interim for clients in spatial development.