You could still smell the fresh paint on the morning of 15 September when the footbridge finally opened to the public after a complete facelift. Closed on 14 May, the passageway is more spacious and offers greater comfort to users while providing access to the platforms and the Bonnevoie district.
"Before, this footbridge looked rough. It was cramped, and it wasn't really pleasant to take it, just practical. But the new footbridge, even if it still needs to be finished, is splendid," said Rita, who uses it daily to go to work.
Eric, a resident of Bonnevoie, remained cautious. "I'm waiting to see what happens with the finishing touches. I hope it will be lit and safe, especially at night. It would be a pity if this beautiful structure were to be turned back into a creepy place that didn't always smell very good."
Finally, Miriam will save precious minutes on her morning commute. "Taking the southern footbridge was a huge diversion in addition to being a meandering path through the station, just like the path via Rue de Bonnevoie. We waited for it, and it looks quite nice", said the young pedestrian.
In general, opinions were positive and the two-day delay for the bridge to open seemed all but forgotten.
Although the footbridge is accessible and gives access to Bonnevoie and the platforms, major finishing touches are still to be expected, particularly with regard to the lifts. Several station platforms and tracks also remain under construction as part of refurbishment works.
This article in French on Paperjam. It has been translated and edited for Delano.