It’s a change of scenery for millions of travelers. The Perrache bus station, a key hub for bus trips in Lyon, is preparing to temporarily pack its bags and move to the 7th arrondissement, right on the parking lot of the Gerland Sports Palace. What’s the reason? The ambitious "Open Perrache" project, aimed at requalifying the exchange center and easing congestion in this iconic area.
Every day, between 150 and 250 buses pass through this station, representing over 2.5 million passengers each year, making it the second-busiest bus station in France after Paris Bercy. That’s a significant flow that the Lyon Metropolis needs to redirect without disrupting the routines of its users. The cost of the operation? 4 million euros. This move will temporarily remove 335 parking spots from the current 750 available at the Gerland Sports Palace parking lot. In exchange, the Metropolis promises a spacious waiting area and public restrooms to welcome travelers in comfort.
optimal conditions.
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A temporary site before the final version in Vénissieux
But beware, this setup is just a stopover. Perrache will never see its bus station return, and its future is being shaped over in Vénissieux, where a permanent site is being planned for 2030. This decision hasn't pleased everyone, especially those travelers used to the bustling city center.
This move has also brought some unexpected consequences: driving schools that used the parking lot for their training are now left searching for a new space to continue their activities. This collateral damage adds another layer of complexity to this already controversial relocation.