“Lyon gets in tune with Barcelona!” That’s a phrase you might overhear as you stand here on Rue de Barcelone.
Rue de Barcelone is more than just a street. It represents a vision. A vision of Lyon embracing pedestrian-friendly urban design. The story of this street involves inspiration drawn from the famous Ramblas of Barcelona.
Imagine Lyon adopting the concept of “super-blocks” similar to those in Barcelona. These are areas prioritizing pedestrians and cyclists. Cars become secondary.
The idea is not to simply copy Barcelona. Lyon aims to create its own version. The plan envisions pedestrian streets linking key areas. The Part-Dieu train station could connect to Rue Docteur Bouchut and Rue Mazenod. This network would then extend to Place Bahadourian.
Another ambitious project considers the Presqu’île. It imagines a pedestrian zone linking Rue Victor-Hugo to Rue de la République. Much of this route from Cordeliers to Place des Terreaux may soon be car-free.
These plans show Lyon’s commitment to “mobility douce.” This translates to gentle or soft mobility. It means favoring pedestrians and cyclists.
The city understands concerns about cyclists. The municipality assures residents that “Voies Lyonnaises” improvements also benefit pedestrians. Fifteen new pedestrian crossings on Cours Gambetta and Albert-Thomas.
Lyon wants to reduce car traffic. It desires more accessible streets. Streets where people can stroll and bike with ease.
The “super-îlot” Danton and Léon Jouhaux near Part-Dieu saw initial work completed in June 2023. The first tree plantings are expected in 2024. A children’s street near the Léon Jouhaux school. The closure of Rue Jouhaux between Place des Martyrs de la Résistance and Rue des Rancy. Security improvements to the school. The city plans to transform Place des Martyrs de la Résistance into a green space. A place for recreation and play.
Agence Osty Jacqueline & Associés. Costing about 1.3 million euros.
The vision extends beyond this single area. Lyon wants to create a city more accessible and liveable. The goal is to make this new environment satisfying.
Rue de Barcelone symbolizes this ambition. It represents a step towards a more pedestrian-oriented future. It echoes Barcelona’s urban success while embracing Lyon’s unique identity. A reminder that cities can evolve prioritizing people over cars. Rue de Barcelone inspires us to imagine a greener more walkable future for Lyon.