New or repaired slabs, reinforced consoles, parapet brought up to standard, full recovery of sidewalks, restored benches... After four years of work and 23 million euros of investment, the emblematic Kennedy cornice in Marseille (Bouches-du-Rhône) has finally resumed its old face, now equipped with a secure cycle path, inaugurated this Thursday, March 24, which winds between the Mediterranean and villas or opulent buildings.
The 3 km long ribbon of bitumen, often on the side of the cliff, crumbled by the action of marine erosion and risked collapse.
The use of high-performance concrete to prevent corrosion allowed these repairs to be carried out in several phases.
"With these works delivered a month in advance, we are quiet for 40 years", appreciates Martine Vassal, the president of the Metropolis.
“I really wanted us to take advantage of this essential project to set up this cycle path, which did not exist, by the sea”.
Waiting for the Olympics
Tourist attraction of the city often victim of a strong automobile traffic, in particular in summer, the corniche is from now on reserved once a month for the pedestrians, cyclists and other scooters within the framework of the operation "the way is free" which will have new place on Sunday.
"The cornice is our balcony on the sea, these facilities are very satisfying", summarizes Audrey Gatian, mobility assistant.
"The next step for a better service of our coast will undoubtedly be the creation of lanes dedicated to buses which are often caught in traffic jams", she adds.
The benches of the cornice which overhang the southern harbor are gradually covered with mosaics by the artist Paola Cervoni.
In 2024, they will welcome the spectators of the Paris Olympics sailing competitions which will take place in Marseille.