Since November 4, 2024, south-north traffic on the Pont-Neuf has been banned. The infrastructure, essential for linking the quays to theÎle de la Cité, was partially closed after recent bad weather caused the cobblestones to collapse. Although impressive, this localized damage does not compromise the bridge's solidity, the municipality assures us.
Seepage had been observed for several months, particularly around the equestrian statue of Henri IV. Local residents, such as Françoise, had noticed the cobblestones spreading apart before the situation became critical. Following an alert from the prefecture in early November, the road services intervened swiftly to secure the area, lay a temporary tar patch and cut off traffic.
Paris Centre City Hall reassures us: "The structure of the bridge has not been damaged." This type of subsidence, although rare on a historic monument such as the Pont-Neuf, is common in Paris after heavy rain. Repaving work is underway and should be completed by December 20.
This project has no impact on the Pont-Neuf 's status as a historic monument and Unesco World Heritage site. The work, estimated at a few thousand euros, is limited to the replacement of damaged cobblestones. However, local residents are suffering the consequences of the detour. Three bus routes (27, 58 and 70) no longer serve the axis, complicating the daily lives of many local residents.
This interruption, though restrictive, guarantees the safety of all concerned. A great opportunity to rediscover on foot this emblematic bridge, which, despite its name, remains the oldest in Paris.
