Monaco is taking steps to address its persistent traffic issues with a groundbreaking project aimed at connecting La Brasca to the Principality via an underground transport system. Estimated at €1.2 billion, this project is designed to alleviate the heavy congestion faced by commuters and reduce the overcrowding of public transport.
Currently, thousands of commuters flock to Monaco daily, leading to significant road and rail congestion. Recently, delays in rail traffic between Nice and Monaco highlighted the growing need for a solution. In response, the Prince's Government launched a call for tenders in October 2024 to develop and operate a state-of-the-art underground system that would link a park-and-ride facility at La Brasca with Monaco.
The primary goal of the system is to reduce the number of vehicles entering Monaco. Drivers will be able to park at the La Brasca facility, located between Èze and La Turbie, and then take the underground transport to their destination. The system will be capable of transporting 2,400 passengers per hour in each direction, with plans to expand to 3,600 passengers.
While the exact mode of transport has yet to be decided, the underground system will be fully automated to ensure frequent, reliable service. Possible options include an underground tram, an automated funicular, or a metro. The underground solution ensures minimal disruption to overground traffic, reduces pollution, and meets the demands of busy commuters.
The project’s cost of €1.2 billion is seen as a necessary investment to improve mobility, protect the environment, and optimize Monaco's infrastructure. A public-private partnership will fund the project, with commissioning slated for 2031, though this may change depending on further studies. A potential extension to Nice remains a possibility for the future.