Paris’s Petite Ceinture: New Section Opens, Connecting Buttes Chaumont to La Villette
Paris, April 25, 2026 – The Petite Ceinture, Paris’s historic inner railway line, has seen a new extension opened to the public, adding several hundred meters of accessible pathway in the 19th arrondissement. This development, announced by the Mayor of the 19th arrondissement, François Dagnaud, brings the city closer to its goal of a continuous pedestrian and nature-filled promenade connecting the Buttes Chaumont park to La Villette.
A New Stretch for Pedestrians
The newly accessible section runs between Rue de Thionville and Ferme du Rail. The official opening took place on Thursday, April 23, 2026. To facilitate public access, a new staircase has been installed at the corner of Avenue Jean-Jaurès and Rue André-Danjon, providing a direct entry point to this dedicated pedestrian space.
The Petite Ceinture, a 32-kilometer railway line constructed during the Second Empire, encircles Paris almost continuously. Its gradual reopening and transformation into green spaces has been a long-term project for the city, aiming to offer residents and visitors new areas for leisure and relaxation.
Towards a Green Promenade: Buttes Chaumont to La Villette
Mayor François Dagnaud (PS) shared the news on social media, expressing his commitment to continuing the reopening of this former railway wasteland. He outlined the ambitious vision for the future:
“Next step: opening of the section between Quai de la Marne and Rue de Thionville. On the horizon, a 100% natural and pedestrian promenade between Buttes Chaumont and Parc de la Villette.”
This initiative underscores the city’s dedication to enhancing urban green spaces and promoting sustainable modes of transport and recreation. The complete promenade is envisioned as a significant addition to Paris’s network of parks and public areas, offering a unique perspective on the city’s landscape.
Access and Future Plans
The newly extended section of the Petite Ceinture is open daily from 9:00 AM, with closing times varying seasonally between 5:00 PM and 8:30 PM. This flexible schedule allows the public to enjoy the pathway for a significant portion of the day.
Further extensions are planned, with the next phase focusing on the section between Quai de la Marne and Rue de Thionville. These ongoing efforts are part of a broader strategy to transform disused urban infrastructure into vibrant public spaces that benefit both the environment and the community.
The Petite Ceinture has become a popular destination for walkers, joggers, and nature enthusiasts, offering a tranquil escape from the bustling city streets. Its unique flora and fauna, developed over decades of disuse, provide a distinct ecological corridor within Paris.
The project to fully convert the Petite Ceinture into a continuous greenway is a testament to Paris’s commitment to urban renewal and environmental sustainability. Once completed, the promenade from Buttes Chaumont to La Villette will offer an unparalleled experience for residents and tourists alike, blending history, nature, and urban development in a harmonious way.
Source: actu.fr
