Paris Reopens Parts of River Seine for Public Swimming for First Time in Century
Paris on Saturday opened portions of the Rive Seine for public swimming for the first time in more than a century, fulfilling a promise of last summer’s Olympics.
About 1,000 swimmers will be able to access the river each day at three bathing sites free of charge through the end of August. It’s a significant step on a $1.6 billion plan championed by mayor Anne Hidalgo that included the open water swimming events at the Paris Olympics.
The plan has included connecting more than 20,000 homes and houseboats moored along the Seine to the sewer system to avoid dumping in the river, improved water treatment facilities and rainwater storage to avoid overflows of sewage. Before the Olympics, Hidalgo went into the Seine to prove its suitability.
The quality of water in the Seine was a major talking point ahead of last summer’s Olympics, as it was the site of open water swimming and the Olympic triathlon legs. Summer rains affected water quality, leading to postponed training sessions, the designation of an alternate competition site and concerns that the event would be held. It eventually went off more or less as planned (the men’s triathlon event was postponed a day), though some swimmers reported adverse effects from being in the water, including some needing hospitalization. The Seine also played a central role in the Opening Ceremonies of the Paris Olympics.
Swimming has been illegal in the Seine in Paris since 1923, with few exceptions, due to water quality and the highly trafficked nature of the river.
Bathing spots are located near the Eiffel Tower (for families with children), Notre Dame Cathedral and the National Library, with lifeguards present, as well as changing and shower facilities. Water quality will be tested daily, with a flag system to indicate suitability. A further 14 sites on the Seine and Marne are planned, with two on the Marne having opened in June.
