XXL Cycle Path Now Open | New Bike Route

Lyon Unveils New Cycle Path, Prioritizing Green Space and Two-Wheeled Transit

The Lyon Metropolis has completed an 800-meter cycle path on rue de Bonnel, marking a notable step in its aspiring “Lyon roads” plan to enhance cycling infrastructure and urban green spaces. The project, finalized in December 2025, represents a commitment to sustainable transportation and improved quality of life for residents.

Did you know? – Lyon’s “Voies Lyonnaises” network aims to create a continuous, dedicated cycling route throughout the metropolis, encouraging residents to choose bikes over cars for daily commutes.

A Long-Awaited Addition to Lyon’s Cycling Network

The new section of Voie Lyonnaise n°11 extends from Cours Garibaldi to Part-dieu,traversing key areas of the 3rd arrondissement including the Halles Paul Bocuse,the courthouse,and the Rhône prefecture. It seamlessly connects to the existing Voie Lyonnaise 1 along the Rhône’s left bank, further expanding the city’s interconnected cycling network. despite some initial delays, the completion of this segment underscores the city’s dedication to its long-term transportation goals.

Reclaiming Space for Cyclists and Nature

the redesign of rue de Bonnel prioritizes cyclists and pedestrians, significantly altering the street’s layout. The new cycle path offers a generous width of 3 to 3.5 meters in both directions,providing ample space for safe and comfortable travel. To accommodate the expanded cycling infrastructure, car traffic has been reduced from three lanes to one, while maintaining a dedicated bus lane – currently shared with bicycles. Parking spaces have been adjusted, with reductions on the north side of the street balanced by the preservation of parking on the south side.

Tho, the most notable aspect of the project is the introduction of substantial revegetation. A dedicated strip of vegetation, covering 800 square meters, has been integrated along the Voie Lyonnaise, transforming a previously “mineral axis” into a greener, more inviting space. This initiative reflects a broader trend in urban planning towards incorporating nature into cityscapes.

Pro tip – When cycling on shared paths, always be aware of pedestrians and other cyclists. Use a bell or verbal warning to signal your presence when passing.

expanding the Voies Lyonnaises Network

The completion of this segment is just one piece of a larger, long-term vision for cycling in Lyon.In 2026,Line 11 (VL11) of the Voies Lyonnaises is slated to connect Lyon 5ᵉ to Chassieu,a 19-kilometer route that will pass through Old Lyon,the Presqu’île district,Lyon Part-Dieu,and along the route de Genas. Looking further ahead, the network is planned to extend to Craponne in the west by 2030, ultimately encompassing a route exceeding 25 kilometers.

This phased expansion demonstrates a strategic approach to building a complete and sustainable transportation system for the Lyon Metropolis. The ongoing development of the voies Lyonnaises network promises to reshape urban mobility and enhance the city’s appeal as a cyclist-friendly destination.

Why: The Lyon Metropolis completed an 800-meter cycle path on rue de Bonnel to enhance cycling infrastructure, promote sustainable transportation, and improve the quality of life for residents as part of the “lyon roads” plan.

Who: The Lyon Metropolis spearheaded the project, impacting cyclists, pedestrians, motorists, and residents of the 3rd arrondissement.

What: The project involved constructing a new section of Voie lyonnaise n°11, reducing car lanes, adjusting parking, and adding 800 square meters of vegetation.

How did it end?: The project was finalized in December 2025, despite initial delays, and is now open to the public. It’s part of a larger plan to expand the Voies Lyonnaises network to 25 kilometers by 2030,connecting Lyon 5ᵉ to Chassieu in 2026 and Craponne by 203