Amsterdam's waterfront, the river IJ (pronounced somewhat like "eye"), connects the Port of Amsterdam, and the North Sea beyond, with inland Europe.
The river separates Amsterdam Noord from the rest of the city. Ferries carry pedestrians and cyclists back and forth for free. The city is now planning to build two bridges — also for pedestrians and bicyclists. A pedestrian tunnel between North and Amsterdam Central Station is also being planned.
And then there's a company that wants to build a cable car across the IJ. The company says that the IJbaan will complement Amsterdam's public transport system. And they claim it won't attract tourists. But just like tourists enjoy riding the free ferries, they will probably not want to forego a chance to ride the Amsterdam Cable Car.
Right now that's all pie-in-the-sky, though. The goal is for the system to be ready by the 750th anniversary of Amsterdam in 2025.
