Flood protection project launched in Avignon

Local officials and project partners inaugurated the reinforcement of dikes on the island of Piot in Avignon on Wednesday, October 21, following heavy rains that affected the Vaucluse region. The project, completed in the summer of 2026, aimed to better protect 5,500 people from flooding of the Rhône River.

Historical context of flood risks

The floods of 2002 and 2003 highlighted the area's vulnerability to flooding, prompting studies on securing protective structures. These studies were later taken over by the Grand Avignon agglomeration under the GEMAPI (Management of Aquatic Environments and Flood Prevention) competence, which has been in place since 2018.

Details of the construction work

The works, carried out between 2025 and 2026, involved raising about 650 meters of existing walls and creating about 560 meters of new tinted concrete walls. The system also included a 130-meter merlon and the raising of about 400 meters of road.

Removable flood protections installed

Three removable protections, called batardeaux, were installed at the Vinotage barge level and the Pavillon Bleu to be used during flood alerts while maintaining access outside of such periods. The protection level varies depending on the area.

Flood protection levels differ

Between the Europe Bridge and the Barthelasse leisure center, the structures are designed for a 20-year flood, while between the leisure center and the Traille Path, the protection corresponds to a two-year flood. Beyond these thresholds, the affected areas remain vulnerable to flooding.

Infrastructure improvements for drainage

The project also included clearing two arches of the Édouard-Daladier Bridge to facilitate water drainage during floods. Walkways, rest areas, urban furniture, and plantings accompany the new protections, with twelve trees and nearly 600 shrubs planted.

Funding sources for the project

The total cost of the operation amounted to 3.4 million euros, funded by Grand Avignon (268,952 euros), the State (1.34 million euros), the Region (1,005 million euros), the Department (335,000 euros), the City of Avignon (330,000 euros), and the Compagnie Nationale du Rhône (176,048 euros).

Officials praise the project

Thierry Lagneau, interim president of the Vaucluse Department, praised the "remarkable work" carried out in this area. Michel Bissière, a regional councilor from the Sud Region, emphasized the interest in investing in prevention, stating "Prevention is cheaper than repair."

Limitations and ongoing efforts

The sub-prefect, Thibault de Cacqueray, noted that "A dike, however necessary it may be, never completely eliminates the risk," emphasizing the importance of maintenance, monitoring, and alerts. The preparation of emergency services and the information of residents remain essential.

Broader vision for flood protection

Olivier Galzi, mayor of Avignon and president of Grand Avignon, highlighted that the challenge goes beyond the structures, stating, "Behind the hydraulic studies we have just been presented with, there are homes, businesses, activities, families." He emphasized that the inauguration is a step in a broader project.

Continued work on the island

Galzi hopes to see studies on the strengthening of the protection of the Barthelasse completed by the end of his mandate while reminding the need to continue the work on the northern part of the island. He sent a message to the residents: "You live on the island, but you are not isolated."