After several years of studies, the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) project is reaching a significant new stage. Initial concrete work, including the construction of a retaining wall in Ollioules, began in late 2025. By spring 2027, concessionaires will progressively work on water, electricity, gas, and telecommunications networks in the eastern entrance of Toulon, preceding the main development works.
This first phase will link the Technopôle de la Mer in Ollioules to Bir-Hakeim in Toulon over 7.5 km, serving 15 stations in the neighborhoods of La Beaucaire, Escaillon, Bon Rencontre, and Pont du Las. The BRT will operate predominantly on dedicated lanes, with an announced frequency of approximately 7 minutes. Service for this section is expected by the end of 2029.
Josée Massi, president of the Métropole Toulon Provence Méditerranée, emphasizes the importance of supporting this new phase. The project, representing an investment of 3 million euros for this initial intervention, will eventually connect La Seyne-sur-Mer and Ollioules to La Garde, extending to the La Pauline-Hyères station.
The arrival of the BRT will transform key sectors of Toulon such as Porte d’Italie, Champ-de-Mars, and Bir-Hakeim. A lane currently dedicated to cars will be repurposed for the BRT, freeing up space for pedestrians and cyclists. Square Kennedy and Champ-de-Mars will be redesigned and greened, improving the perception of the area currently dominated by road traffic.
Beyond Porte d’Italie, the project aims to create continuity between neighborhoods and better integrate public transport, walking, and cycling. Associated works, such as a pedestrian footbridge to improve access to the Basse-Convention kindergarten in the Escaillon sector, will enhance safe pathways. Works are also planned for Pont-du-Las, with specific support for residents and businesses on Avenue du XVe Corps.
The BRT promises a time saving of approximately 10 minutes on the first section, but more importantly, improved regularity thanks to dedicated lanes, making journey times less dependent on traffic conditions. Stations will also offer greater passenger comfort with larger, more sheltered platforms.
To minimize the impact of the construction, multiple work fronts will be organized in parallel and in phases. The Métropole will draw on the experience gained from the A57 widening, ensuring advance information, designated elected officials, mediators, and ongoing dialogue with residents, businesses, users, and all concerned stakeholders.
