Paris: the Canal Saint-Martin soon to undergo construction work

It's a place frequented by many Parisians. With its footbridges, cobbled quays, locks, swing bridges and century-old trees, the Canal Saint-Martin is a heritage site to which the capital's inhabitants are strongly attached. But here's the thing. Inaugurated in 1825, almost 200 years ago, the Canal Saint-Martin is aging. As part of a vast redevelopment project, this famous landmark of the capital will soon be undergoing work lasting around two years, with the aim of unveiling a new face by 2026!

So, what exactly can we expect? " Its future is shaped by the harmonious combination of intense use and the prospect of an ecological corridor where all living things - fauna, flora and human beings - cohabit and flourish," explains the Paris 10th arrondissement town hall in a press release.

Through this vast redevelopment project, designed in conjunction with local residents, the 10th arrondissement's Town Hall intends to " provide a safe, sustainable environment " for soft mobility along the canal, as well as transforming the canal into a " showcase for biodiversity and islands of freshness, notably by opening up the Villemin-Mahsa Jîna Amini garden to the water ". The City Council also wishes to " reinforce the cleanliness of the water and the quays ", reduce noise pollution and, finally, make this landmark in the center of the capital " an intergenerational space for culture, sport and relaxation for all ".

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The broad outlines of the project were presented on November 20, 2023 at the Point Ephémère during a public feedback meeting. By 2026, the Canal Saint-Martin is set to unveil more spaces dedicated to cyclists and pedestrians, including 3.4 km of bicycle facilities (two bicycle cranes) and 147 new bicycle bays, as well as 10,400 m² reserved for pedestrians, 18 crosswalks, 8 crossing sidewalks, 2 pedestrian bridges and 50 benches and seats.

In terms of natural spaces, the 10th arrondissement council has announced the planting of 52 trees, the development of 3,205 m² of open-ground vegetation, and the installation of 10 biodiversity refuges.

We haven't forgotten the urban agora on the Bassin Louis Blanc, as well as the development ofa sports trail with a swimming area during heatwaves, sports apparatus for women and seniors, a free practice area with fitness box and children's games in the Square Eugène Varlin, and a children's play box in the Square des Récollets.

Last but not least, 2 new public toilets and 15 sorting shelters are also planned... all for a budget of 15 million euros.

What about the construction schedule? The first phase of the mobility project is scheduled to take place between February and June 2024. The second phase for the same mobility project is scheduled to take place between October 2024 and February 2026, i.e. after the Paris Olympics. Finally, for the landscaping project, work is scheduled to take place between October 2024 and December 2025.