Bulletproof Glass Fence Proposed Around Eiffel Tower

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In the wake of recent terror attacks on the city of Paris, officials are taking steps to increase security around the Eiffel Tower. The 15-year plan includes a new wall that will be built along the northern and southern edges of the landmark, and public gardens on the eastern and western sides. Entry to the Eiffel Tower will remain free of charge, but the security check process will be moved to the new public garden entrances.

bulletproof glass bullet resistant barriers

Eiffel Tower Security Upgrades to Address Temporary Fences

Although current reports are conflicting as to what the final material of the new wall will be, the head of the company that manages the Eiffel Tower told city councilors of plans for a “bulletproof fence” that will stand approximately eight feet tall. There has been some initial concern about the security upgrades and making the Eiffel Tower feel like a “bunker,” but officials have been quick to state that the material they select will not block view of the Eiffel Tower.

The security improvements are a permanent solution to the metal fences and temporary structures that went up in the wake of recent events. The proposed plans must be approved by two different committees, one for historical preservation and one for environmental impact. Once approved, construction could begin by the end of 2017.

Safety Glass Used at the Eiffel Tower in 2014

The bulletproof wall would not be the first introduction of laminated safety glass to the Eiffel Tower. In 2014, the first level of the Eiffel Tower was outfitted with an anti-skid glass floor, offering visitors dramatic views to the ground 187 feet below. Made by laminating three sheets of glass with two high-strength films, the final product is about 1.25 inches thick.

Other proposed renovations to the Eiffel Tower include:

  • fresh paint
  • elevator repairs
  • replacing thousands of  light bulbs that glow every hour on the hour

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