Villeurbanne, February 8th – A significant new infrastructure project has been completed in Villeurbanne, with the inauguration of the Saint-Jean Bridge over the Jonage Canal. While the bridge is primarily designed to accommodate the future T9 tramway line, its pedestrian and cycling sections were officially opened on Thursday, February 5th, marking a crucial step in enhancing urban connectivity.
A Vital Link for Active Mobility
The Saint-Jean Bridge, constructed parallel to the existing Roulet road bridge, is a key component of Sytral Mobilités’ efforts to improve transportation in the Lyon metropolitan area. Measuring 135 meters in length and 16 meters in width, the bridge required the assembly of 1600 tons of steel, a testament to the scale of the engineering feat.
“On each side of the bridge, ramps already connect the upper and lower quays, allowing cyclists and walkers to link up with the ViaRhôna, the Voies Lyonnaises, and the Blue Ring promenades,” stated Sytral Mobilités. “In the extension of this new bridge, a pathway dedicated to active modes (pedestrians and cycles) has been developed to cross the barrier created by the ring road. The creation of this crossing illustrates a major objective of the project: to bring together territories previously separated by a fast road and a canal.”
Connecting Communities and Enhancing Accessibility
The immediate benefit of the bridge’s opening is the improved accessibility for residents of the Saint-Jean and Croix-Luiziet/Les Buers districts. Previously, these areas were somewhat isolated by the canal and the ring road. The new bridge provides a direct and safe route for pedestrians and cyclists, encouraging active transportation and fostering greater community integration.
“The opening to pedestrians and cyclists marks a major step for this impressive construction site,” a Sytral Mobilités spokesperson added, highlighting the project’s importance for local residents and urban planning.
Future Development: The T9 Tramway
While the current focus is on pedestrian and cycling access, the Saint-Jean Bridge’s ultimate purpose is to facilitate the passage of the future T9 tramway line. Preparations for the tramway will continue in the coming months, with further developments including the construction of the railway platform.
The T9 tramway line is scheduled to commence service in 2027. It will connect the Vaulx-en-Velin-La Soie multimodal exchange hub to Charpennes, spanning 8.8 kilometers of new track and incorporating 12 new stations. This expansion of the TCL network is expected to significantly enhance public transport options for thousands of daily commuters, contributing to a more sustainable and efficient urban environment.
Impact on Urban Planning and Sustainable Transport
The Saint-Jean Bridge project aligns with broader initiatives to promote sustainable transportation and reduce reliance on private vehicles in the Lyon metropolitan area. By prioritizing active modes of transport and expanding the tramway network, local authorities aim to mitigate traffic congestion, improve air quality, and create a more livable urban landscape.
The bridge’s design, which integrates pedestrian and cycling paths alongside the future tramway, exemplifies a holistic approach to urban planning, where different modes of transport are harmoniously accommodated within a single infrastructure. This forward-thinking strategy is crucial for addressing the challenges of urban growth and ensuring the long-term sustainability of the region.
The successful opening of the pedestrian and cycling sections of the Saint-Jean Bridge represents a significant milestone for Villeurbanne, promising enhanced connectivity, improved active mobility, and a brighter future for public transportation in the region.
