What secrets does the Métropole de Lyon hold? The Métropole de Lyon, also known as Grand Lyon, isn’t just a city; it’s a living tapestry woven from 58 communes. It pulses with a population exceeding 1.4 million. In 2022, this vibrant metropolis was the 11th most populous in France. The Métropole de Lyon replaced the Urban Community of Lyon in 2015, a pivotal moment in its evolution.
The Métropole de Lyon isn’t confined to the city limits. It extends its reach to embrace the surrounding suburbs, creating a dynamic urban landscape. This expansive area covers 533.68 square kilometers, crisscrossed by the lifeblood rivers, the Rhône and the Saône. The heart of the Métropole, Lyon itself, holds around 37% of the total population. This metropolitan authority isn’t just a geographical entity. It possesses its own governing body, led by a directly elected metropolitan council. Since July 2020, the reins of power have been held by Bruno Bernard of the Green Party.
The Métropole de Lyon isn’t static. It constantly evolves, adapts, and innovates. Its geography has even shifted over time. In 2015, the communes of Grigny and Vernaison absorbed portions of Millery. This created a vital corridor, connecting Grigny to Vernaison and ensuring territorial continuity. Interestingly, this move split the department of Rhône into two distinct sections. A similar exchange occurred with Jonage ceding land to Jons. This created a separate corridor, maintaining the Rhône department’s territorial integrity. The Métropole de Lyon isn’t just concrete and steel. Despite its urban nature, a surprising 40% of its area is dedicated to natural spaces and agriculture, a testament to its commitment to balance.
The Métropole de Lyon isn’t isolated. It’s connected by a network of transport arteries. The périphérique, or ring road, encircles the metropolis. Major highways like the A6, A7, A42, A43, A46, A47, and A89 link it to the wider world. Lyon Part-Dieu and Lyon Perrache, the main railway stations, provide national and international connections, including high-speed rail. Within the Métropole, SYTRAL Mobilités orchestrates public transport, overseeing the TCL network, the Optibus service for reduced mobility, and even some Rhône departmental bus routes. Furthermore, the Métropole de Lyon hosts the Lyon-Saint-Exupéry Airport. The Rhônexpress tram links the airport and its adjacent TGV station to Lyon Part-Dieu.
The Métropole de Lyon isn’t just about infrastructure. It’s about people, community, and progress. The area has a Low Emission Zone (ZFE). This zone encompasses Lyon, Caluire-et-Cuire, Villeurbanne, Bron, and Vénissieux. It is a testament to the Métropole’s commitment to a sustainable future.