Montpellier accelerates progress on the tramway and bus-tram

Montpellier Mediterranean Metropolis is developing its new mobility axes, including tram line 5 and bus-tram lines.

Already very active in mobility options between bicycles, trams, and free services for residents, Montpellier will expand its offerings in the coming years.

A new tram line 5

And Montpellier Mediterranean Metropolis is not holding back, with an investment close to one billion euros. The first major project, tram line 5 (€440 million including €346 million from the metropolitan area), has been under construction since 2019.

It will cover 16 km between Clapiers and Lavérune and is set to be launched in 2025. While tram lines 3 and 4, which are now 10 years old, remain unchanged, line 1 will extend its route. It will serve the TGV station by 2024.

Montpellier joins the bus-tram club

But the real innovation for Montpellier residents will be the bus-tram. This high-level service bus (BHNS) features a dedicated lane, similar to existing services in Metz, Nantes, or Rouen. The metropolis plans to create 5 lines by 2025, covering 57 km across 10 municipalities including Montpellier. The vehicles will be electric, supplied by the Spanish company Irizar, as in the Basque Country Community. To promote various modes of transportation, 24 kilometers of cycling paths will be built in parallel.

• Line 1: Montpellier Place de l’Europe – Castries Espace Gare
• Line 2: Montpellier Sabines – Gare Sud de France
• Line 3: Montpellier Peyrou-Arc de Triomphe – Stade Pierre de Coubertin
• Line 4: Cournonsec – Gennevaux
• Line 5: Montpellier Peyrou-Arc de Triomphe – Grabels Euromédecine 2

Consultations to align with expectations

But before starting construction, Montpellier Mediterranean Metropolis has offered opportunities for residents to exchange ideas. Five public meetings have been held in recent weeks regarding the bus-tram, while an online consultation is available until April 14. For the extension of line 1, a public inquiry will close on April 22.

Finally, another public meeting addressed the future operations and maintenance center last March 17. Built in Grammont in the eastern part of the city, it will be able to manage 80 trams and buses starting in late 2026. Residents have until May 2 to submit their input online.

Also read: When the American yellow school bus goes electric