Who decides on the names of the streets of Paris?

Pierre and Marie Curie, Voltaire, Saint-Denis, Boulangers, David Bowie. These illustrious names may seem to have no connection at first glance, but since yesterday they now share a common point: all are listed side by side in the directory of street names in Paris. On the anniversary of the late legendary musician, the nameplate for David Bowie was unveiled in the 13th arrondissement of the capital, accompanied by many admirers and friends of the artist. The David Bowie street is a bit like if glam rock decided to take a break between office buildings and the Austerlitz station. It is currently located at 61 Avenue Pierre-Mendès-France, in the heart of serious Parisianity.

Close to the Accor Arena, where David Bowie gave his last concert in October 2003 during the "A Reality Tour" world tour, the street is expected to extend towards Boulevard de l'Hôpital after the completion of the Pont de la Salpêtrière works, creating a connection between the neighborhood and Austerlitz station. Despite this artistic touch, the location doesn't exactly match the stereotypical image of the "rock & roll" neighborhood. But who knows, perhaps the addition of David Bowie street will bring an interesting artistic note to this part of Paris? An initiative driven by a fan of the artist who took the necessary steps to name a street after his idol in February 2020.

While street names in Paris were previously assigned rather informally, depending on physical characteristics or local activities, the French Revolution catalyzed changes, replacing names to reflect republican ideals. With the massive urbanization led by Haussmann in the 19th century, Paris truly took on a new face. New boulevards emerged, creating a dynamic urban panorama. Street names were then influenced by urban planning, local history, and even paid tribute to contemporary personalities. Today, the allocation of street names in Paris is a process managed by the municipality, involving consultations, specific criteria, and public deliberation to ensure an appropriate representation of the city's history and diversity.

If the idea strikes you, you will need to address the street-naming commission directly. Composed of elected officials, it reviews wishes and requests issued or following local consultations. In collaboration with historians, researchers, and associative groups, it decides, or not, their legitimacy. Its members also work hand in hand with families and close associates of the honored personalities, the mayors of the district, and the relevant deputies. For the city of Paris, it is essential that the selected location has a concrete connection to the proposed personality and their journey. An evolution that gives us streets and axes with diverse denominations, including the medieval Rue Saint-Antoine, Avenue Simone Veil, a reflection of modern Paris, renamed in 2018 in homage to an emblematic political figure and pioneer of women's rights. Or the Johnny Hallyday Esplanade. So, all proposals are welcome!