Anne Hidalgo, Paris’s first female mayor, has left an indelible mark on the city, reshaping it in ways that continue to spark both admiration and debate. Since her election in 2014, Hidalgo has championed ambitious urban reforms aimed at transforming Paris into a greener, more sustainable, and inclusive metropolis.
A cornerstone of Hidalgo’s legacy is her bold environmental agenda. Her administration has prioritized reducing car dependency in a city historically congested with traffic. Key initiatives include pedestrianizing large swathes of the city, such as the Seine riverbanks, and expanding bike lanes to make Paris a cyclist-friendly capital. Under her leadership, the city added over 1,000 kilometers of cycling infrastructure, boosting the popularity of eco-friendly commuting. These efforts earned Paris recognition as a global leader in urban sustainability.
Hidalgo’s tenure has also seen a focus on reclaiming public spaces for residents. Parks, gardens, and green zones have flourished under her policies, with a commitment to creating an “urban forest” by planting thousands of trees. The transformation of iconic sites like Place de la Bastille and the Champs-Élysées into pedestrian-friendly zones highlights her vision of a more livable city.
However, Hidalgo’s reforms have not been without controversy. Critics argue that her policies, while environmentally progressive, have led to increased traffic on city outskirts and challenges for small businesses reliant on vehicular access. Others contend that the pace of change has been overwhelming for residents and businesses alike.
Beyond her environmental initiatives, Hidalgo has worked to address social issues, including affordable housing and gender equality. Her administration expanded access to social housing, aiming to keep Paris accessible to lower-income families despite rising real estate costs. As a staunch feminist, Hidalgo has also prioritized initiatives to combat gender-based violence and promote women in leadership roles.
Anne Hidalgo’s two terms as mayor have undeniably redefined Paris, turning it into a model of sustainability and urban innovation. While her policies remain polarizing, there is no denying her role in shaping the city’s trajectory, leaving a lasting legacy of transformation and progress.
