New Bidirectional Bike Path Connects Place Massenet to CHU Saint-Étienne
Saint-Étienne Métropole has inaugurated an 800-meter bidirectional bike path along Avenue Pierre Mendès France in Saint-Priest-en-Jarez, linking Place Massenet to the CHU Saint-Étienne hospital while running parallel to the tramway line. This secure, dedicated cycling route preserves existing parking and enhances safety for cyclists. The project, completed in November 2025, includes new tree plantings to maintain a green urban environment.
Background
The new infrastructure runs from the “Cité de l’agriculture” tram stop to the intersection with Avenue François-Mitterrand, providing a fluid and protected space for bike users amid growing demand for sustainable mobility. Prior to construction, 66 cypress trees were removed and replaced with 68 new trees in autumn 2025, ensuring the avenue remains vegetated and pedestrian-friendly. This initiative is part of Saint-Étienne Métropole’s broader Plan Vélo Métropolitain, a €41 million investment aimed at tripling bike trips by 2030 through a 110 km network of dedicated cycling routes. Complementary projects, such as a 1 km double-sided bike path on Rue Bergson (under construction from June 2025 to March 2026), underscore the region’s commitment to safer cycling infrastructure.
Future Outlook
With ongoing and planned developments under the Plan Vélo, Saint-Étienne Métropole is poised to expand its cycling network significantly, fostering greener commutes and reducing car dependency. Additional amenities will prioritize accessibility, safety, and integration with public transit like trams, aligning with global trends in sustainable urban transport. Cyclists can expect more seamless connections across the metropolis, supporting healthier lifestyles and lower emissions by 2030.