Ingérop has won the 2024 National Engineering Grand Prize for its transformation of the Promenade du Paillon in Nice.
The Promenade du Paillon in Nice is undergoing a transformation into an urban forest. Just recently completed, the project for the extension of the Promenade du Paillon Season 2 is already highlighting local businesses. Designed by Ingérop, the project was awarded the 2024 National Engineering Grand Prize by the Ministry of Ecological Transition and its partners. This prize also acknowledges its technical quality and adaptation to current climate challenges.
Previously characterized by a significant presence of concrete and road traffic, this area will be redeveloped to become a natural space in an urban environment. The redevelopment covers an area of more than 8 hectares. It includes the planting of 2,500 trees suited to the Mediterranean climate. This new space aims to mitigate urban heat islands and promote biodiversity. A rainwater collection system will make the park self-sufficient in water, helping to address upcoming drought periods.
Meeting new urban criteria
The project also includes a reduction of car traffic lanes in favor of pedestrian and cyclist areas and an electric bus lane, with the goal of limiting motorized traffic in this central area of the city.
Guillaume Chauvin, project director at Ingérop, describes this transformation as an example of urban resilience. “This urban forest will allow the people of Nice to reclaim a pleasant neighborhood adapted to the climate challenges of tomorrow,” he explains. In addition to the green spaces, the Promenade includes a walking area, leisure spots, and a sustainable water management system.