The political shift in the Métropole de Lyon, coupled with a tangible reduction in pollution and the rise of electric vehicles, could pave the way for a re-evaluation of car usage within the city. This comes as Véronique Sarselli takes the helm as the new president, inheriting a series of intricate urban mobility challenges.
The Shifting Sands of Urban Mobility in Lyon
Jérôme Fourquet (Ifop) once famously described the electoral verdict in municipal elections as a battle between a “France of bikes versus a France of cars.” This sentiment strongly resonated in Lyon’s recent electoral campaign, where mobility issues dominated discussions. The city has been a hotbed for debates surrounding extensive roadworks, the proposed new tunnel under Fourvière, and the feasibility of extending metro or tram lines to Tassin.
In response to the growing discontent among motorists, particularly those commuting from outside Lyon, Véronique Sarselli has pledged to reopen Rue Grenette. This move aims to facilitate east-west traffic flow for vehicles originating from the Val de Saône and Monts du Lyonnais, signaling a potential shift in urban planning priorities.
Immediate Changes and Future Prospects
Further demonstrating her commitment to easing traffic for drivers, Sarselli announced the return of cars to Montée du Chemin Neuf (connecting Vieux-Lyon and Saint-Just) and the reinstatement of two-way traffic on Avenue Rockefeller between Bron and Grange-Blanche. These changes are expected to be implemented before the end of the year, with Rue Grenette’s reopening anticipated even before summer.
During her campaign launch, Sarselli also floated the idea of allowing vehicles to use bus lanes during off-peak hours and leveraging AI for traffic light regulation to improve flow. These proposals suggest a pragmatic approach to urban mobility, seeking to balance the needs of motorists with broader environmental and planning objectives.
The Fourvière Tunnel and ZTL: Unanswered Questions
The ambitious project of a new tunnel under Fourvière, intended for transit vehicles or specific internal city movements (such as Écully/Vénissieux or Tassin/Oullins), could significantly alleviate traffic congestion in the Presqu’île area. However, its funding remains uncertain, and its realization is a distant prospect.
This raises a critical question: Can Véronique Sarselli go further to satisfy her electorate? Could she, for instance, significantly alter the Limited Traffic Zone (ZTL) in the Presqu’île, perhaps by raising the access barriers only in the evenings? Yves Crozet, honorary professor at the Laboratory of Spatial Planning, Economics, and Transport, notes, “We will have to monitor the pressure from traders, especially in the luxury sector.”
Moratorium on Bike Lanes: A Controversial Move?
Another contentious issue is the future of bike lanes. While the Métropole mentions only a “moratorium” on certain bike lane developments, Jean Coldefy, a mobility expert, advocates for reconsidering less-frequented infrastructures, particularly in areas like Tassin or Limonest/Champagne. One thing is clear: the era of restrictive mobility policies appears to be drawing to a close.
The Broader Context: A New Vision for Lyon?
The debate over urban mobility in Lyon is not merely about traffic flow; it reflects a deeper societal discussion about the city’s identity and future. The previous administration’s emphasis on cycling and public transport, while laudable for environmental reasons, alienated a significant portion of the population reliant on cars.
Sarselli’s administration faces the delicate task of navigating these contrasting expectations. Her challenge is to implement policies that address the concerns of motorists without undermining the progress made in reducing pollution and promoting sustainable transport. This requires a nuanced approach, combining infrastructure adjustments with technological solutions and a willingness to engage with diverse stakeholders.
What Does This Mean for Lyon’s Future?
The decisions made by Véronique Sarselli will have profound implications for Lyon. Will the city embrace a more car-friendly future, or will it seek a balanced approach that integrates various modes of transport? The answers will not only determine the daily commutes of thousands but also shape the economic vitality and environmental health of one of France’s most dynamic cities.
The return of the car to the city center is not a simple matter of reopening roads; it is a complex negotiation between historical urban planning, modern environmental imperatives, and the evolving needs of its inhabitants. Sarselli’s tenure will be a critical test of how Lyon manages these competing demands.
Source: https://actu.fr/auvergne-rhone-alpes/lyon_69123/lyon-retour-de-la-voiture-en-ville-ce-que-peut-faire-la-nouvelle-presidente-de-la-metropole-veronique-sarselli_64218450.html
