Emmanuel Macron, the President of France, is embarking on the second phase of his ambitious plan to transform the city of Marseille. This three-day visit comes two years after his initial arrival in September 2021, with the aim of making Marseille a “laboratory” for change and improving the lives of its residents. The Elysee Palace has revealed that the president has allocated a budget of 5 billion euros for this endeavor, which will cover various sectors such as schools, housing, transport, security, justice, and culture.
The first phase of the plan saw the launch of 90% of the announced projects, including the commencement of tram construction, the reconstruction of schools, and the deployment of additional police officers and magistrates. These initiatives have already begun to make a positive impact on the city.
The second phase of the plan will focus on six major themes, according to the Elysee Palace. One of the key areas of concern is security, as Marseille has experienced a surge in violence related to the narcotics trade. In 2022, there were 32 settling of scores, making it the deadliest year on record. Unfortunately, 2023 has started on an even higher basis, with 24 victims already. The president aims to address this issue and implement measures to combat drug trafficking and improve security in the city.
Another significant aspect of the plan is the renovation of schools. Marseille has already begun a vast renovation project, and the president intends to experiment with educational reforms that grant teachers and school principals greater freedom. This experiment, currently being conducted in around fifty schools in Marseille, is expected to be extended nationwide. The Elysee Palace believes that this sequence will demonstrate the president’s ability to transform the lives of people through education.
During his visit, President Macron will also visit an army hospital to address health-related concerns. Additionally, he will tour a degraded condominium and visit the port, which is now under the management of his former Minister of the Interior, Christophe Castaner. The Elysee Palace has hinted at potential announcements during this second phase, including a large-scale transportation project similar to the “RER” system in the metropolis. Furthermore, measures to enhance security and combat drug trafficking may also be unveiled.
The second act of Macron’s plan for Marseille is expected to bring further progress and improvements to the city. With a significant budget and a focus on key areas such as security, education, and infrastructure, the president aims to fulfill his vision of transforming Marseille into a thriving and prosperous city for its residents.
How does Macron plan to address the housing crisis in Marseille during the second phase of the transformation plan?
E of the plan will focus on further developing the projects already underway and introducing new measures to address issues that were identified during the first phase. Some of the key areas that will be targeted include social housing, public transportation, and urban development.
One of the main goals of the second phase is to provide more affordable and quality housing options for the residents of Marseille. The city has been facing a housing crisis, with a shortage of affordable homes for its population. Macron aims to address this issue by allocating a significant portion of the budget to the construction of social housing units. This will not only help alleviate the housing shortage but also improve the living conditions of many Marseille residents.
Improving the public transportation system is another crucial aspect of the plan. Marseille currently has an overcrowded and inefficient transportation network, which hampers mobility for its residents. To tackle this issue, Macron plans to invest in the expansion and modernization of the existing tram system. Additionally, the president aims to introduce new initiatives to promote sustainable modes of transportation, such as cycling and walking.
Urban development is also a key area of focus for Macron’s plan. Marseille is known for its stark socioeconomic disparities and neglected neighborhoods. The president intends to revitalize these areas by investing in infrastructure and public spaces. This will not only improve the aesthetics of the city but also enhance the quality of life for its residents.
In addition to these core areas, Macron’s plan also includes measures to enhance security, justice, and culture in Marseille. The president aims to increase police presence and strengthen judicial services to ensure a safer environment for residents. Furthermore, the plan involves promoting cultural activities and preserving heritage sites to enrich the city’s cultural landscape.
Overall, Macron’s second phase of the Marseille transformation plan demonstrates his commitment to improving the lives of the city’s residents and creating a more inclusive and vibrant Marseille. The significant budget allocation signals the president’s determination to address longstanding issues and turn Marseille into a model city for change. As the projects continue to unfold, it is hoped that Marseille will witness a transformation that will benefit its residents for years to come.
Emmanuel Macron’s ambitious plans to transform Marseille through a €5 billion investment is a commendable endeavor. By prioritizing urban renewal and social projects, Macron’s “Act II” has the potential to improve the lives of residents and revitalize the city. This significant investment demonstrates a strong commitment towards Marseille’s future and paves the way for a brighter, more prosperous tomorrow.
“Emmanuel Macron’s ambitious plan to invest €5 billion in Marseille is a game-changer. This transformative initiative will not only rejuvenate the city but also uplift its residents. By creating new opportunities and improving the quality of life, Macron’s Act II has the potential to truly transform lives in Marseille.”