Construction phase begins in Ollioules

The future high-service bus (BHNS) for the Toulon metropolitan area has entered a new phase of construction, with planned interventions on water, gas, electricity, and telecommunications networks by spring 2027 before roadworks begin. This phase is crucial to ensure the infrastructure can support the new transport system.

First section expected by 2029

The first section of the BHNS, between Ollioules and the center of Toulon, is expected to open by the end of 2029. This section includes eight kilometers of route and fifteen stations, serving neighborhoods such as La Beaucaire, l'Escaillon, Bon Rencontre, and Pont-du-Las before reaching the major boulevards of Toulon.

Work has already started in Ollioules

Construction has already begun in Ollioules, where a retaining wall was built starting in 2025 for an investment of 3 million euros. The next phase will focus on technical networks, followed by the platform reserved for buses, stations, and public spaces. Several work zones will advance in parallel, with progress announced in phases.

Pont-du-Las requires community involvement

At Pont-du-Las, the avenue du XVe-Corps will require special support from residents and merchants. The metropolitan area plans designated elected officials, mediators, and exchanges with neighborhood stakeholders. The president of Toulon Provence Méditerranée (TPM), Josée Massi, mentioned the possibility of carrying out part of the work at night to reduce its impact on commercial activity.

Design changes at Porte d'Italie

At the Porte d'Italie, a road currently used by cars will be reallocated to the BHNS. The Champ-de-Mars and the square Kennedy must be redesigned and landscaped, while pedestrian and cycling pathways will be strengthened around Bir-Hakeim. These transformations also concern access to the university campus and the hypercenter.

Improved mobility and service details

On this first section, 90 % of the route must be reserved for buses. The announced frequency reaches a passage every seven to eight minutes during peak hours, with a planned operating period from 5:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. The metropolitan area estimates a time saving of about ten minutes. These are operational goals, which must be assessed once the line is open.

Future expansion and investment

The BHNS project includes a network of 28 kilometers and 65 stations intended to connect, in stages, La Seyne-sur-Mer, Ollioules, Toulon, La Valette-du-Var, and La Garde. Along the entire route, the proportion of reserved lanes announced is 70 %. The investment planned for the entire program reaches 395 million euros TTC, including 40 million provided by the State and 10 million by the South Region.

Planned extensions after 2029

After the expected opening of the first section by the end of 2029, the extensions to La Valette and La Garde are scheduled for the period 2029-2033, followed by those to La Seyne-sur-Mer in the following years. This long-term plan aims to create a comprehensive high-service bus network across the region.