Pont d'Iéna becomes pedestrian and traffic-free

The City of Paris has announced the definitive closure of the Pont d'Iéna to automobile traffic. This emblematic bridge, which links the Eiffel Tower to the Palais de Chaillot, is becoming a pedestrian zone to improve visitor safety and enhance its tourist appeal. Here's a look back at the reasons for this transformation and the details of the new arrangement.

The Pont d'Iéna linking the Eiffel Tower to the Palais de Chaillot in Paris, temporarily reserved for pedestrians during the Olympic Games, is now permanently closed to traffic following a municipal decree. It has to be said that this major thoroughfare, which offers a breathtaking view of the Eiffel Tower, is a must-see spot for tourists, who flock here in droves to take photos.

Why is the Pont d'Iéna now pedestrian-free?

The pedestrianization of the Pont d'Iéna meets a need identified during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. During this event, the bridge had been temporarily closed to traffic to facilitate tourist access to the Eiffel Tower. The massive influx of visitors who came to admire the Olympic rings demonstrated the importance of securing this busy area. Patrick Bloche, first deputy mayor of Paris, explains that this decision is part of an effort to protect pedestrians while making the crossing more pleasant.

Who can still drive on the Pont d'Iéna?

Car traffic is now prohibited on the bridge, except for buses , cabs and emergency vehicles. This restriction frees up the central space for pedestrians, while maintaining fluidity of service for public transport and emergency services.

What impact will this have on pedestrians and tourists?

With 50,000 crosswalks every day, the Pont d'Iéna is one of the capital's busiest bridges. The definitive closure to car traffic improves the safety of pedestrians, who can now cross in complete peace of mind. The City of Paris is emphasizing the tourist dimension of the site, offering unobstructed views of emblematic monuments such as the Eiffel Tower and the Palais de Chaillot. The new layout promotes sustainable tourism by minimizing the carbon footprint of travel.

What are the prospects for the future?

The City of Paris wishes to enhance the tourist appeal of this site by making it safer and more pleasant for visitors. The pedestrianization of the Pont d'Iéna is part of a series of measures aimed at reducing automobile traffic around major Parisian monuments. The project is part of a wider policy to promote ecological transition and the development of pedestrian zones in the city's most emblematic locations.

In short, it's now safe to go there. Note that this weekend, small Olympic rings were temporarily suspended on the Pont d'Iéna as a "wink" to the large rings installed on the Eiffel Tower, which Anne Hidalgo wishes to keep until 2028.