Hidden beneath the rumbling metro line, the Traverse du Bachas whispers tales of transformation. This once-forgotten corner of Marseille’s 15th arrondissement, known as Les Crottes, has been reborn as a vibrant community hub. For years, Traverse du Bachas was a desolate spot. Locals avoided the area. Abandoned cars and carelessly discarded waste littered the street. Then, a remarkable change swept through the traverse.
The Traverse du Bachas, once choked with debris, is now unrecognizable. The area has been cleared, cleaned, and brightly lit. A basketball court, a boules pitch, and a playground have emerged. This weekend, children’s laughter echoed through the newly renovated space. The Addap 13 organized sports activities. Terres ludiques and la Cie des Rêves led games. Maquisart offered graffiti workshops. The Recyclerie Sportive showcased bicycle repairs and demonstrations. Pépins Production hosted gardening workshops. This transformation is part of Euroméditerranée’s project, funded by the Anru and the Métropole, to create a temporary recreational and social space in this evolving neighborhood. In the next four to five years, the Traverse du Bachas will connect to the future Parc des Aygalades. Work has already begun on the graffiti museum in the former Tulipe factory.
The revitalization of Traverse du Bachas has brought a renewed sense of community to Les Crottes. Locals, who once shunned the area, now gather to enjoy the new amenities. Children play freely in the designated areas. Adults socialize and reconnect with their neighbors. The transformation has been met with overwhelming enthusiasm. The spontaneous turnout for the recent community events at Traverse du Bachas is a testament to the positive impact of this revitalization project. The Traverse du Bachas serves as a symbol of hope and renewal for this long-overlooked neighborhood. Its transformation from a neglected space to a vibrant community hub reflects the ongoing efforts to revitalize and reconnect Marseille’s diverse communities.