Pursuits
Paris Big Dig Abandons Chic Haussmann for Trains to the Suburbs
The most extensive infrastructure plan since Georges Haussmann’s 150 years ago aims to boost the economy in the metro area.
Gare Noisy - Champs.
Source: Jean-Marie Duthilleul - Société du Grand ParisThis article is for subscribers only.
Paris is embarking on its most ambitious building project in more than 150 years, when a young bureaucrat replaced the medieval city center with grand buildings and boulevards in a signature style that is now known by his name — Haussmannian.
Today’s bureaucrats aim to channel more than 35 billion euros ($37 billion) in the next two decades toward the urban hinterland that represents all that ails the city — even the country. First floated in 2008, the plan is intended to foster development by connecting suburbs to each other, as well as the downtown.