Cartesius, the leading healthy and sustainable area development by MRP and Ballast Nedam Development, is a proud partner of La Vuelta’s start in the Netherlands. In the presence of Simone Richardson, project director of La Vuelta Holanda, the official ‘sports kick-off’ took place at the historic CAB in Cartesius, a key location along the Vuelta route.

Healthy Urban Living comes together with La Vuelta Holanda at Cartesius Utrecht

Located next to Zuilen train station, Cartesius will be a vibrant, sustainable, and health-focused urban district with over 2,800 homes. Inspired by the scientific principles of Blue Zones, the neighborhood is designed to foster longer, healthier, and happier lives. It will feature parks, an elementary school, a sports hall, a supermarket with an organic and healthy selection, diverse dining options, and dedicated spaces for culture and recreation.

Onno Dwars, CEO of Ballast Nedam Development, emphasizes the role of cycling in promoting health and community: "Cycling supports a healthy and social lifestyle, which is at the heart of the Cartesius area development. According to the Global Bicycle Cities Index, Utrecht is an international paradise for cyclists. Beyond being a great social activity, cycling helps maintain a healthy weight, improves fitness and immunity, and prevents diseases. We are proud to sponsor this fantastic event that showcases Utrecht as the ultimate cycling city."

Innovation, sustainability and health fit seamlessly with La Vuelta Holanda's ambitions in organizing the three stages of the great Spanish cycling race in the Netherlands.

Cartesius - natural movement is the standard

Paul Trip, Special Advisor Development at MRP, highlights the emphasis on natural movement in Cartesius: "In Cartesius, movement is central, so the neighborhood is designed with cycling as a priority. A new bicycle tunnel under the railroad will create a direct connection to the city center. This will be a residential neighborhood where people live healthier and happier for longer, with a strong focus on social well-being. Residents will have full access to shared mobility, public transport, and excellent cycling and walking routes, making sustainable and active living effortless."

Residents of Cartesius will have attractive alternatives to car ownership, supported by a smart mobility system that makes sustainable travel effortless. Visitors will also find it easy to opt for eco-friendly transportation options. In the first two phases, a significant number of shared cars will be introduced, reinforcing Cartesius' commitment to sustainable urban mobility.

Simone Richardson, project director of La Vuelta Hollanda: "We are very happy that MRP and Ballast Nedam Development are sponsors of La Vuelta Hollanda on behalf of Cartesius and in doing so have helped make the start of the team rides and the first sustainable Green Caravan in Utrecht possible."

On August 19, We Drive Solar will participate in the Green Caravan on behalf of Cartesius, showcasing a V2G (bidirectional) Hyundai IONIQ 5 shared car. This world-first initiative at the cycling event features vehicles that are not only sustainable but also carry a powerful environmental message, reinforcing Cartesius' commitment to smart, clean mobility.

La Vuelta Holanda program:

August 18: Team presentation at Vredenburg, August 19:Time trial Utrecht (start Jaarbeurs )- Cartesius Cartesiusweg - finish Jaarbeurs Utrecht, August 20: 's- Hertogenbosch - Utrecht Science Park (overUtrechtse Heuvelrug)August 21: Breda - Breda For more information aboutVuelta Holanda, visit: www.lavueltaholanda.com

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