Sun Jan 18 21:10:00 UTC 2026: ### Tabarot Outlines Transportation Priorities, Addresses Controversial Projects

The Story:
In a recent interview on Public Sénat’s “Bonjour Chez Vous!”, Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot addressed key transportation issues facing France. He emphasized the need for compromise on the budget, particularly within his own party, Les Républicains (LR), stressing the urgency of acquiring materials and hiring personnel for transport infrastructure. Tabarot also discussed the upcoming framework law on transportation, the pricing of train tickets compared to air travel, the controversial A69 highway project, and a proposed mega-tunnel under Fourvière in Lyon.

Key Points:

  • Budget Compromise: Tabarot urged his LR party colleagues to compromise on the budget to ensure necessary resources for the transportation sector.
  • Transportation Framework Law: The minister revealed that a framework law on transportation is slated for presentation in the Council of Ministers in February. It aims to allocate future highway revenues (estimated at 2.5 billion euros) towards other modes of transport.
  • Train Ticket Pricing: Tabarot highlighted the environmental disparity in train ticket prices, noting that French rail passengers pay only 25% of the ticket cost, compared to up to 50% in other European countries, and the need to reduce costs relative to air travel.
  • A69 Highway: Tabarot firmly defended the continuation of the A69 highway project, but emphasized the need for strict adherence to planned land use by the construction contractor.
  • Fourvière Tunnel: He expressed skepticism about Jean Michel Aulas‘s proposed mega-tunnel under Fourvière, citing financial, environmental, and time-related concerns, implying the project is unlikely to materialize soon.

Key Takeaways:

  • Budgetary Constraints: The Minister’s plea for compromise suggests underlying tensions within the ruling party regarding budgetary allocations for transportation.
  • Shifting Funding Priorities: The plan to redirect highway revenues towards other modes of transport signals a potential shift in French transportation policy towards more sustainable alternatives.
  • A69 Controversy Continues: Despite ongoing opposition, the government remains committed to the A69 highway project, signaling a continued focus on road infrastructure despite environmental concerns.

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