As the municipal elections approach, Christian Estrosi held a press conference this Thursday, February 5, at the premises of APF France handicap in Nice. The aim was to review the actions already taken for people with disabilities and to present the initial measures envisaged in case of reelection.
It was within APF France handicap that Christian Estrosi chose to speak this Thursday, February 5. In front of people with disabilities and association members, the Mayor of Nice presented his objectives to concretely improve their daily lives. Members of the association used this exchange to address the mayor with a plea detailing their demands and expectations. This conference had a dual purpose, to directly interact with those primarily concerned and to unveil the initial measures planned in case of reelection in the upcoming municipal elections.
Actions already implemented
Christian Estrosi reminded everyone that numerous measures have already been initiated during his current term. Among them were the accessibility of Nice trams, the creation of a new handiplage, and making parks more accessible. A new library adapted to the needs of disabled persons will also open its doors on February 15, 2026. The issue of autism was a central topic in his speech. The mayor mentioned the implementation of the “autism” plan and did not hesitate to criticize the actions of the State, stating that “the State behaves improperly with autism.”
In this vein, the city has supported the creation of a school dedicated to autistic children, the Château school. Starting in the February holidays, this institution will also host a recreation center for disabled children who have not yet acquired cleanliness. Other trials have been conducted, such as creating adapted housing for disabled adults, with the presence of caregivers during the night.
The mayor also emphasized the efforts made to make cultural events more inclusive, citing the example of the Nice carnival, now accessible through audio description. On the employment front, Christian Estrosi highlighted that the public service in the city of Nice currently includes 1,000 agents with disabilities, representing 10% of the workforce. This figure surpasses the 6% threshold imposed by the French State.
Ten commitments for a new term
During this exchange, the mayor detailed ten commitments he wishes to support if reelected. Among the flagship measures is the goal to make 100% of the Nice tramways accessible to all and the improvement of the Mobile Azur service. Free parking for disabled persons in municipal-controlled parking lots is also planned.
Christian Estrosi also announced the establishment of “solidarity grandpas and grandmas”, who will be called upon to assist children during lunchtime in schools. Two open villas for autistic individuals are planned, and new adapted housing for disabled adults will be developed.
The mayor also wishes to make all the city’s major events accessible to everyone, improve the accessibility of municipal digital platforms, promote accessible tourism, and offer financial assistance to families to cope with expenses related to disability.
Strong demands persist
Following these announcements, people with disabilities expressed several demands to Christian Estrosi. The discussions particularly focused on transportation, sports accessibility, and the need for additional specialized schools.
While many advances were acknowledged, the mayor insisted on the necessity to continue efforts, asserting that we must “keep moving forward and go much further.” A declaration that sums up the spirit of this conference, recognizing the progress made while affirming that the fight for inclusion is far from over.
