“Montpellier residents are ready for change”: the president of the Metropolis satisfied with the first attendance report

Un maire satisfait de cette première photographie de la gratuité. Midi Libre – GIACOMO ITALIANO

A campaign promise, free public transport has been in effect since December 21, 2023. A first attendance report has been published by the Metropolis.

What does this first assessment inspire in you ?

Free is a success! Between 2019 and the three stages of implementation, the increase in attendance is 23.7%. The Montpellier experience is watched throughout France. Other municipalities will defend free transport in the next municipal elections. Our experience challenges preconceived ideas: there is an increase in cycling and transport use. Crimes are down. From 2025, the 5th tram line will help provide an alternative to the car for travel. We combine climate action and purchasing power. Together we are designing a Montpellier success.

The unions dispute these figures with a comparison of ticketing and counting cells…

It’s true we don’t have enough perspective to compare. We made it free in three stages: the weekend, under 18s and over 65s, then December 21. Next year we will improve the evaluation thanks to counting cells. We will conduct a household survey in 2026 to study their uses.

Is this first assessment a sign that Montpellier residents are ready to change their habits ?

The people of Montpellier are ready for change. It is one of the most advanced territories in the ecological and inclusive transition.

Do you plan to strengthen the resources ? 

First of all, the new trams are being manufactured and will arrive at the end of the year. Tram line 5 will be in service in the second half of 2025 and the extension of line 1 at the end of 2024. Things are progressing little by little.