First, the Games were the result of a dedicated team effort, led by the visionary Mayor Anne Hidalgo. Second, Paris transformed its mobility offerings through a decade-long plan that succeeded despite the initial doubts of Parisians themselves. And third, Paris proved to be the perfect backdrop for the 2024 Olympics, offering an open, picturesque, and sustainable environment that redefined the essence of the Games.
Strong Leadership by Paris’ Major Anne Hidalgo
Anne Hidalgo, the Mayor of Paris, has played a pivotal role in the transformation of the city over the past decade, leaving an indelible mark on modern urban planning. From submitting Paris' bid for the 2024 Olympic Games in 2015 to the successful hosting of the Games, her leadership has been instrumental in reshaping Paris. Her vision extended beyond the sporting events, focusing on creating a citywide celebration that engaged all Parisians, not just those in designated areas. Through tactical urban planning, Hidalgo avoided the pitfalls of "white elephants" and transformed disadvantaged northern areas, making Paris more walkable, bikeable, and connected to its river. Her motto of "happy proximity" encapsulates the city's newfound vibrancy and accessibility. Anne Hidalgo's innovative approach and strong leadership have earned her global recognition, solidifying her legacy as one of the most influential figures in urban policy today.
Significant Mobility and Infrastructure Changes in Paris
Paris has undergone significant mobility changes, driven by its extensive network of over 1,000 kilometers of bike lanes, which have influenced residents' transportation habits. In the past year, cycling increased by 37.3%, metro usage rose by 12.6%, and car traffic in the city center decreased by 5.5%, with a 1.7% drop on the Periphérique highway. The share of trips made by bike has grown to 11.2%, up from less than 5% before the pandemic. Meanwhile, only 4.3% of trips are now made by car, as revealed by a survey from the Paris Region Urban Planning Institute. This shift, part of Paris's broader climate policy, has not only improved the daily lives of residents but also created a more relaxed experience for millions of tourists.
Paris became an open air museum and hosted the most joyful games ever
Paris is a never-ending field of discovery and it has become a veritable open-air museum during the Games this summer. From the rooftops or on the ground. From the Eiffeltower to the gardens of Versailles. It's a city full of poetry for those who take the time to admire it, and so they did: the millions of visitors in the past weeks. Never before have the Olympic Games found such an impressive setting. And throughout it all, people were at the center—whether athletes, coaches, officials, or the spectators themselves. Up close, in an incredible setting, and infused with a contagious joy from all involved. It was a festival of nations, with athletes from 206 countries participating this year. Peaceful, joyful, and as a beacon of hope, showcasing respectful interactions among all.
What’s next? The Olympic family moves to Los Angeles, LA28 is the new term to watch out for
As the world turns its attention to Los Angeles, the host of the 2028 Summer Olympics, curiosity abounds about how the Californian city will meet its ambitious pledge to make these Games the greenest ever. In a bold promise, Los Angeles aims to offer a “car-free” experience, a remarkable goal for a city synonymous with car culture and notorious traffic. With the Paris Olympics now concluded, the pressure is on for Los Angeles to deliver significant upgrades to its transit system, including extending rail lines, adding buses, and clearing traffic lanes, all to ensure that athletes and visitors can navigate this sprawling metropolis without gridlock. As the clock ticks, the challenge is monumental, but there's optimism, as Eli Lipmen of Move L.A. notes, that the impending deadline will drive the city to rise to the occasion.
Photos courtesy of Michael Brecht.
