LYON, March 7 – Bruno Bernard, the incumbent president of the Lyon Métropole and a candidate for re-election in the 2026 municipal elections, has outlined his ambitious plans for urban mobility, including the addition of 100 kilometers of new cycling paths. In an interview published in the ‘Nouveau Lyon’ magazine, Bernard also defended his project for the transformation of the Rhône’s right bank, just days before the first round of elections.
Continued Expansion of Lyon’s Cycling Network
Bernard emphasized his commitment to expanding the ‘Voies Lyonnaises’ cycling network, a comprehensive 350 km system designed to serve the entire metropolitan area. He stated, “We have already completed 170-180 km. We want to add at least 100 km in the next term. It will probably take part of a third term to complete the 350 km. The work will be easier to manage as it will be spread out over time, unlike the past term which saw the impact of Covid, consultations, and studies. But yes, of course, we must continue! It’s a matter of public health.”
He highlighted the health and environmental benefits of cycling, noting its positive impact on air pollution and its cost-effectiveness for both users and the community, especially when compared to public transport, which incurs significant operating costs.
Addressing Construction Criticisms
Bernard acknowledged criticisms regarding construction work but clarified that the ‘Voies Lyonnaises’ represent only a portion of ongoing projects. He pointed out that tramway constructions, heating networks, and water or gas pipelines also contribute significantly to disruptions. To mitigate these issues, he announced plans to spread out the work over six years and create a vice-presidency dedicated to construction management. Furthermore, he intends to strengthen communication with residents and businesses, for example, through WhatsApp loops.
He also addressed the political opposition, stating, “There has been a more frontal opposition from some Republican mayors who wanted to attack cycling through the ‘Voies Lyonnaises’.”
Debunking Traffic Congestion Claims
Responding to accusations that reducing car lanes exacerbates traffic, Bernard countered, “I do not share this point of view. Once the work is finished, cyclists can ride safely, pedestrians benefit from generally widened sidewalks. And there is less car use. Often parking is reduced, not necessarily traffic.” He cited a study indicating a natural 36% decrease in car traffic in the Presqu’île between 2015 and 2030, which would increase to 51% with the Rhône right bank project.
Transformation of the Rhône’s Right Bank
The transformation of the Rhône’s right bank is another key project for Bernard’s next term. The plan involves redeveloping the section between the Collège footbridge and Wilson bridge by early 2028, followed by the section between the Wilson bridge and the University bridge by 2030. Despite initial environmental authority reservations, which have since been addressed, Bernard remains confident in the project’s feasibility.
He drew parallels with the successful redevelopment of the Rhône riverbanks, stating, “Remember the Rhône riverbanks, everything went well and no one would want to go back.” He further explained that studies show the continued reduction in traffic will accommodate the decrease in road lanes, with some traffic shifting to other routes like the ring road.
Upcoming Elections and Future Vision
The upcoming municipal elections in 2026 are crucial for Bernard’s vision for Lyon. His interview, featured in the March 2026 edition of ‘Nouveau Lyon’, alongside an interview with Véronique Sarselli, presents two contrasting visions for the Métropole’s future. The magazine also covers other significant urban development topics, including the feasibility of the Fourvière tunnel, future energy needs, and new real estate projects.
Further details on the election and various urban projects can be found in the ‘Nouveau Lyon’ magazine, available at newsstands.
