Paris officials are exploring ways to better accommodate runners within the city, with a focus on creating dedicated “green routes” throughout the capital. Deputy Mayor David Belliard, along with fellow ecologists Alice Timsit and Amina Bouri, recently participated in a “running press” event on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, to discuss the initiative.
The concept, as outlined during the approximately two-kilometer run near République in the 11th arrondissement, aims to establish a network of pedestrian and running paths prioritizing safety and accessibility. Belliard, who is too a candidate for mayor of the 11th arrondissement and holds the third position on the list supporting socialist Emmanuel Grégoire, emphasized the importance of dedicated spaces for runners in a city increasingly focused on sustainable transportation and public health.
This isn’t a novel trend, of course. Running has seen a surge in popularity in recent years, and city planners globally are grappling with how to integrate the needs of runners with those of pedestrians, cyclists, and vehicle traffic. The challenge in a dense urban environment like Paris is particularly acute, requiring creative solutions to maximize limited space.
Amina Bouri, a delegate for Paris Centre, is specifically tasked with overseeing the city’s climate plans and the history of the Seine, suggesting a potential integration of running routes along the riverbanks. Her role, as detailed on the Mairie de Paris Centre website, also includes serving as a liaison to neighborhood councils, indicating a commitment to community input in the planning process. Bouri’s focus on the Seine is particularly relevant, as riverside paths are often popular with runners, but can also become congested.
The idea of a “trame verte” – a green framework – suggests a more holistic approach than simply marking existing paths. It implies a deliberate effort to connect parks, gardens, and other green spaces with dedicated running lanes, creating a continuous and safe network throughout the city. This could involve repurposing underutilized areas, widening sidewalks, or even creating elevated or underground pathways in particularly congested zones.
The Paris city council currently consists of 503 elected officials: 163 councilors of Paris and 340 councilors of the arrondissements, as of September 26, 2025. These officials are elected for six-year terms through a system of proportional representation. The initiative proposed by Belliard will likely require significant discussion and approval from these council members, as well as input from local residents and running groups.
While specific details of the plan remain under development, the “running press” event signals a clear commitment from Belliard and his team to prioritize the needs of runners in Paris. The next steps will likely involve conducting feasibility studies, gathering public feedback, and developing a detailed proposal for implementation. The success of this initiative will depend on careful planning, effective communication, and a willingness to adapt to the unique challenges of the Parisian urban landscape.
The focus on creating dedicated running spaces also aligns with broader efforts to promote active lifestyles and reduce reliance on cars within the city. By providing safe and accessible routes for runners, Paris aims to encourage more residents to incorporate physical activity into their daily routines, contributing to improved public health and a more sustainable urban environment.
The city’s commitment to green initiatives, coupled with the growing popularity of running, suggests that this proposal has a strong chance of gaining traction. The challenge will be to balance the needs of runners with those of other road users and to ensure that the “green routes” are integrated seamlessly into the fabric of the city.
The next scheduled meeting of the Paris city council is on March 18, 2026, where this proposal, or updates on its development, may be discussed. Residents interested in learning more or providing feedback can contact their local arrondissement councilors or follow updates on the Mairie de Paris website.
