After more than eight months of the commissioning of the Grand western bypass of Strasbourg (GCO), a report on the evolution of traffic on the M35 crossing the Eurometropolis was presented this Tuesday to the press by the prefecture of Bas-Rhin , the A355 concessionaire Arcos and the Eurometropolis.
A lighter M35
This is a “satisfactory” assessment according to the State. It should make it possible to achieve a good part of the hoped-for objectives in the near future. Like that of completely removing the traffic of trucks in transit crossing Strasbourg, in particular those coming from Germany and Eastern countries, to make local traffic more fluid, but also to improve air quality. Result, a “significant” drop on the M35 according to the prefecture, of 33% for heavy goods vehicles and 6% for light vehicles, per day, on weekdays.
Regarding trucks alone, 90% of them would use the new motorway, which represents between 6,000 and 7,000 vehicles per day on weekdays. Immediate and very satisfactory consequence, less traffic jams and slowdowns on the M35: the time saved by motorists for crossing Strasbourg each day is estimated at between 15 and 20 minutes at rush hour, and that in both directions. A fluidity of traffic certainly, but which in return could well, fear the authorities, encourage some to take back their car, unless the increase in the price of fuels does not deter them… Fewer accidents have also been noted by the authorities.
Expected improvements
Less traffic on the M35, better air quality? Nothing is less sure. “Too early”, it is announced because the evaluations are still in progress and no data could be communicated. It will probably be necessary to “wait until December for that”, assures the prefecture. Another unknown, the evaluation of the noise of the A355 while many inhabitants of the small towns crossed by the GCO complain. Mystery again, the postponement of trucks in transit which avoid the A355 paying in its central part and which would take the roads of villages.
On the other hand, if there is one thing that is not respected but well observed, it is the lane reserved for carpooling. Way which should actively participate in the reduction of “autosolist” desires. Main explanation put forward: the difficulty of carrying out checks in complete safety. A real failure recognizes the State and the Eurometropolis who nevertheless think they see there the greatest room for maneuver to improve the situation. Dynamic signage should see the light of day.