22 Oct Lifting of the Cigarières metal footbridge in Yverdon-les-Bains

On Tuesday 22 October 2024, the town of Yverdon-les-Bains celebrated the lifting of the new Les Cigarières metal footbridge over the River Thièle, a landmark event for the region.

The installation of this 124-tonne metal structure, 52.60 metres long and 5 metres wide, was carried out using a high-capacity crane, providing an impressive spectacle for the many spectators in attendance. It replaces an old structure that was attached to the TRAVYS bridge, and is designed to improve the network of paths for cyclists and pedestrians.

The metal footbridge consists of a variable-height metal box supported by a single triangular pier. It was made from recycled steel in our Bulle workshops, which are 100% self-sufficient in electricity. With its ‘reseda’ green colour, reminiscent of the Hermès typewriters, it pays tribute to the strike by the female workers at the Vautier cigar factory in 1907.

This metal structure dedicated to soft mobility is due to open just before Christmas, with full service scheduled for spring 2025.

It’s a project that combines innovation, sustainability and respect for local history, and promises to become an important symbol for Yverdon-les-Bains.

Many thanks to the architectural firm Bauren Wälchli Architectes in Lausanne, the civil engineering firm Perret-Gentil SA in Yverdon-les-Bains and all our employees who worked on this magnificent, modern and sustainable project!