Nice Upgrades Tram Network for Better Westside Links

 

As of January 6th, travelers in Nice have been adapting to a revamped tram network aimed at improving links between the city center and its rapidly growing western suburbs. The updated routes and schedules are designed to reduce wait times, enhance access to key areas like the Eco Valley, and support the needs of an expanding population.

While the changes aim to create a more connected future for the city, the adjustments come with challenges. Some travelers may face disruptions due to canceled stops and modifications to well-used routes, raising concerns about short-term inconvenience despite the long-term goals.

Until recently, Ligne 2 connected Port Lympia in the east to Nice Côte d’Azur Airport’s Terminal 2, continuing to the CADAM administrative center. That route has now been discontinued.

Four stops—Paul Montel, Les Moulins, Digue des Français, and CADAM—have been removed from Ligne 2. Passengers heading to CADAM must now transfer trams. From the city center, they can take Ligne 2 or Ligne 3 to Grand Arénas, where they can switch to the new Ligne B, which now directly serves CADAM.

For travelers from Saint-Isidore to the city center, the changes bring an improvement: no more transfers. Ligne 3 now runs directly from start to finish, with trains arriving every seven minutes.

However, users of the CADAM park-and-ride facility (formerly Charles-Ehrmann) face an added step. They must take Ligne B to Grand Arénas and then transfer to Ligne 2 or Ligne 3 to reach the city center. Meanwhile, those using the park-and-ride near Ikea can now travel directly to the city center via Ligne 3.

Speaking to France 3, Gaël Nofri, president of the Lignes d’Azur network and head of parking in Nice, outlined the rationale behind the tram network changes. “We need to connect the western districts of the city to the city centre,” he explained. “This new tramway plan, designed for 20,000 users, will reduce waiting times and improve access to the Eco Valley.”

The overhaul reflects efforts to align the network with the rapid growth of neighborhoods like Saint-Isidore, Méridia, and Plaine du Var. City officials say the updates were informed by attendance studies and consultations with local committees.

While acknowledging potential disruptions, Nofri admitted, “It will probably be necessary to walk a few kilometers from time to time,” but emphasized that the changes aim to deliver a better overall service.