This Saturday, November 11, Cassini Street unveiled its new look after more than a year of construction work.
The people of Nice were particularly curious to discover the new face of this historic street in the city of Nice. The work, which began in October 2022, aimed to widen sidewalks, plant trees, and create a bicycle lane. This redevelopment of Cassini Street is in line with the green grid project. By promoting tree planting and soft mobility, the City of Nice is emphasizing its commitment to reducing carbon emissions.
While the atmosphere was intended to be friendly and warm, the arrival of the mayor, Christian Estrosi, caused some turbulence. Partially booed and accompanied by whistles, the beginning of the speech already set a tense mood. A few minutes later, Cassini Street was enveloped in discomfort.
Indeed, from his apartment, an individual was playing the Russian anthem loudly from his speaker. Christian Estrosi condemned this act of provocation and demanded the police to issue a report immediately. Finally, Christian Estrosi continued his speech, gradually regaining the initial festive spirit. “I ask you to take ownership of it, this Cassini Street is yours!” he declared.
Cyclists in Attendance
The completion of the Garibaldi Square work in recent days surprised and then outraged Nice’s cyclists. Indeed, the bike lane initially included in the project was ultimately not constructed. The “Nice à Vélo” association quickly denounced this “aberration.” The Architect of French Buildings is said to have suggested an unfavorable opinion regarding the extension of the Cassini Street bike lane onto Garibaldi Square.
However, this Saturday, November 11, the Nice cyclists are satisfied with the work. In fact, a member of the “Nice à Vélo” association revealed that a “magnificent bike lane” was built overnight from Friday to Saturday. Garibaldi Square is now equipped with a real bike lane on its new paving stones! The energy mobilized by the association has paid off. At the end of Christian Estrosi’s speech, the cyclists’ bells even resonated in Cassini Street as a token of thanks.
