The first half of the twentieth century saw rail traffic increased significantly, partly because of seaside tourism and the fact that La Rochelle is at the crossroads of routes between Bordeaux, Nantes and Poitiers. Also, 24 March 1906, construction of a new passenger building is declared public utility.
By 1909 a new station is built. The building, designed by architect Pierre Esqui is dominated by a monumental bell tower 45 meters high, higher than the towers of the harbor entrance.
The building faces a vast esplanade from which a wide tree-lined boulevard linking the town, built on the site of the horn-work, resulting in his death. The station, richly decorated, recalls the architecture of La Rochelle, including that of the Big Clock. The hall is decorated with large passenger mosaics, while the cuffs are made of stone. Its facade is decorated with many carvings inspired by marine life. The docks are fully covered by a glass roof. It is one of the most beautiful railway construction since 1929 and is listed in the inventory of historical monuments.
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