Paris Riverfront Development Boosts Economy But Draws Criticism

"Some consider the Seine Riverfront a linchpin of Paris's future: a huge development area on former industrial land and railway yards that could give a much-needed jolt to the city's aging urban core."

"Supporters laud the development, known as Paris Rive Gauche, as a futuristic alternative that could help revive the city's economy and its struggling universities while creating much-needed housing."

"But some in this always-opinionated city denounce it as a stale corporate wasteland. Not only does it lack neighborhood character, they say, but it is also gobbling up precious land that might be better devoted to parks, small shops and cultural spaces."