The Greater Narbonne Metropolitan Community awarded the public service delegation contract to RATP Dev for the management of the Citibus public transport network for a duration of 8 years, starting on 1 January 2025. RATP Dev will manage the urban operations, intercity routes, school lines, and Transport-on-Demand (ToD). This strategic partnership will prioritize improving the passenger experience, the quality of the public transport offer, and the service throughout the metropolitan area.
RATP Dev will be tasked with improving the public transport offer in the Greater Narbonne area. The objective is to modernize the existing network and to offer tailored solutions suitable for commuters, schoolchildren, tourists, and residents alike, and throughout the conurbation (coast, town centre and rural areas).
"RATP Dev is proud to help the Greater Narbonne Metropolitan Community towards its goal of implementing an ambitious mobility offer for the local area and its residents," explained Serge Reynaud, RATP Dev Executive Director France and Switzerland.
A modernized offer and reorganized routes for a more effective service
More attractive for users, this offer includes several changes and new features. The Citibus network will be greatly simplified. The public transport service in the city center has been modified to be more free-flowing and to ease congestion. It will also be extended to new residential neighbourhoods of Narbonne.
The reorganization of intercity bus routes and school bus routes in Greater Narbonne will optimize high-potential public transport services by improving intervals between buses and expanding the school bus network increasing from 38 to 56 routes.
In addition, the transport-on-demand (ToD) services will be reorganized to provide more effective coverage with links to the interchange hubs. The transport offer also includes the roll-out of 250 electric bicycles for medium- or long-term rental with several different models available, including a cargo bike.
Improving the service quality for passengers
To make daily life easier for Narbonne residents, the Citibus mobile app and website will also be improved, centralizing all passenger information. By switching to a MaaS (Mobility as a Service) model, the website and the digital app will offer an integrated experience, including passenger information, ticket sales, and Open Payment. The latter will be available on board all city and intercity vehicles simplifying travel for all users.