Boulevard Périphérique
The Boulevard Périphérique, often simply referred to as the Périphérique, is a controlled-access highway surrounding Paris, France. Here are some key details:
History
The concept of a ring road around Paris was first proposed in the 1920s, but it wasn't until after World War II that the idea gained traction. Construction began in 1956, with the first section opening in 1960. The complete ring was finished by 1973, making it one of the first urban ring roads in Europe. Initially, there was a speed limit of 80 km/h, which was later increased to 90 km/h.
Design and Structure
- Length: It stretches for 35.04 kilometers, encircling the city.
- Lanes: Typically, the Périphérique has three lanes in each direction, though this can increase to four or even five during peak traffic times with the addition of temporary lanes.
- Speed Limit: The current speed limit is set at 70 km/h.
- Exits: There are 38 interchanges connecting to major roads in and out of Paris.
- Bridges and Tunnels: It features several bridges and viaducts, including the notable Pont de Sèvres which crosses the Seine.
Traffic and Usage
The Périphérique handles an average of 1.2 million vehicles daily, making it one of the busiest urban highways in the world. Traffic congestion is a significant issue, especially during rush hours, with the average speed dropping to as low as 40 km/h during peak times.
Ecological and Urban Impact
The construction and existence of the Périphérique have had notable impacts:
- It has created a physical barrier between Paris and its suburbs, affecting urban planning, housing, and social dynamics.
- Environmental concerns include noise pollution and air quality issues due to high traffic volumes.
- Recent efforts have focused on greening initiatives, including the development of green spaces along its route and noise reduction barriers.
Future Developments
There are ongoing discussions and plans for:
- Improving public transport integration to reduce car dependency.
- Potential expansion or reconfiguration to ease traffic flow.
- Environmental upgrades to reduce its ecological footprint.
Sources
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