Lyon, France – As 2025 draws to a close, the city reflects on a year marked by significant urban transformation, economic shifts, and changes in mobility. Key projects such as the demolition of the Perrache exchange center’s footbridge and the implementation of a Limited Traffic Zone in the Presqu’île have reshaped the urban landscape and daily life for residents. These developments, alongside notable economic and cultural events, captured the attention of the public, making them the most-read stories on local news platforms.
Major Urban Transformations and Mobility Changes
The year 2025 has been a period of intense change for Lyon’s infrastructure and urban planning. The demolition of the footbridge at the Lyon-Perrache exchange center, a five-year project initiated in February 2025, has been a central focus. This demolition, part of a broader urban transformation aimed at reconnecting the city’s districts, has significantly impacted daily commutes. [bfmtv.com](https://www.bfmtv.com/lyon/lyon-la-transformation-de-perrache-debute-la-passerelle-fermee-pour-demolition_AV-202502170613.html) The footbridge, used by approximately 30,000 pedestrians daily, was deemed obsolete, and its removal is expected to create a more open and integrated urban space. The demolition process involved several phases, including asbestos removal and the dismantling of the slab, beams, and girders, with specific measures taken to minimize disruption and dust. During these works, alternative pedestrian routes were established, and public transport services, including metro, tram, and bus lines, largely maintained normal operations, with minor evening disruptions for tram lines T1 and T2 from June 16 to 19 due to safety requirements for beam cutting and lifting near the tracks. [leprogres.fr](https://www.leprogres.fr/transport/2025/06/16/demolition-du-centre-d-echanges-de-lyon-perrache-la-circulation-du-t1-et-t2-perturbee-plusieurs-jours) [lyoncapitale.fr](https://www.lyoncapitale.fr/actualite/centre-dechanges-lyon-perrache-des-travaux-vont-interrompre-les-trams-t1-et-t2-pendant-4-nuits)
Another pivotal development was the establishment of the Limited Traffic Zone (ZTL) in the heart of Lyon’s Presqu’île, effective June 2025. This initiative aims to reduce automobile traffic in the city center, prioritizing pedestrians, public transport, and residents. The ZTL covers the area between Place Bellecour and the slopes of Croix-Rousse, transforming the avenue de la République into a pedestrian-friendly space. [lefigaro.fr](https://www.lefigaro.fr/lyon/a-lyon-la-zone-a-trafic-limite-sera-effective-des-jun-2025-20250206) This measure, initially met with some controversy from local businesses and residents concerned about accessibility and economic impact, has been justified by city officials as a means to improve the quality of life and enhance the pedestrian experience in a bustling urban area. Despite the restrictions, access to the 18 underground car parks in the Presqu’île remains available, and delivery vehicles are permitted during specific hours. [lyoncapitale.fr](https://www.lyoncapitale.fr/actualite/exit-les-voitures-place-aux-pietons-sur-la-presqu-ile-de-lyon)
Economic Developments and Business News
Beyond infrastructure, the economic landscape of Lyon saw notable shifts. The situation surrounding ACI Groupe, a prominent local entity, garnered significant media attention as its leadership faced internal disputes, leading to judicial intervention and the removal of management powers. This event highlighted the challenges and complexities within the local business community.
New commercial openings in key areas like Confluence and Part-Dieu also signaled ongoing economic dynamism and growth in the city’s retail sector. These developments indicate continued investment and expansion, contributing to Lyon’s role as a regional economic hub.
Cultural Highlights and Public Interest
Cultural events continued to draw significant public interest. The Fête des Lumières 2025, a signature event for Lyon, once again captivated audiences, with local media providing reviews and highlights. Similarly, the Quais du Polar 2025 festival, a major literary event, generated considerable discussion and engagement among readers.
Other topics that resonated with the public included changes in parking regulations, with new areas becoming subject to charges, and educational news, such as the appointment of a new director for the Academy of Lyon and Rhône. These diverse topics reflect the broad range of interests among Lyon’s residents, from daily practicalities to major cultural and urban developments.
Looking Ahead
As 2025 concludes, Lyon continues its trajectory of modernization and development. The ongoing transformation of Perrache and the adjustments to urban mobility underscore the city’s commitment to creating a more livable and sustainable environment for its citizens, while maintaining its vibrant cultural and economic life.
Source: [affiches-parisiennes.com](https://www.affiches-parisiennes.com/auvergne-rhone-alpes/tout-lyon-le-top-10-des-articles-les-plus-lus-en-2025-sur-notre-site-236656.html)
