Nice Mayor drops plan to reopen cycle tunnel to cars
Nice mayor Éric Ciotti has reversed plans to reopen the Congrès tunnel to motorists, confirming it will remain reserved for cyclists and other forms of active travel.
The mayor of Nice, Éric Ciotti, has abandoned plans to reopen the Congrès tunnel to motorists, reversing a key campaign pledge.
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The small tunnel, which links Rue du Congrès with the Promenade des Anglais, has been reserved exclusively for cyclists and other forms of active travel since 2020.
It will remain dedicated to bicycles, e-scooters and other low-emission transport, providing a safe two-way crossing.
Mr Ciotti said the decision followed a thorough review and consultation process.
He highlighted the tunnel’s importance not only for cyclists but also for people with disabilities who use it as a secure route through the city.
The proposal to return the tunnel to car traffic had been presented during the municipal election campaign as a way to ease congestion in nearby streets.
However, the plan faced strong opposition from cycling groups, including the organisation Nice à Vélo, whose petition attracted more than 8,000 signatures.
Campaigners argued that the route is used by around 900 people a day, rising to 1,000 during the summer, and contributes to improved air quality and reduced noise pollution.
The decision comes as Nice continues to promote cycling infrastructure and recently received the “Ville à Vélo du Tour de France” label in recognition of its efforts to encourage bike use across the city.