Who was Julien Duranton? Right now, you’re standing on a road named in his honor. Avenue Julien Duranton in Valenton might not sound familiar, but the man it’s named for led a life dedicated to this very community. Born in 1927, Julien Duranton grew up in Valenton. His father was a railway worker and his mother, a pioneering woman in local politics. Following in their footsteps, Julien became a dedicated communist, joining the party in 1948. He began his career as an electrician, even working on notable projects like the Saclay Nuclear Research Centre. But his true calling was public service. In 1953, he became deputy mayor of Valenton and later, in 1960, took over as mayor. He held this position for thirty years. During his tenure, he oversaw Valenton’s transformation from a modest village to a bustling town of over 11,000. He spearheaded social housing projects, always ensuring new residents had access to schools and sports facilities. He was also a staunch environmental advocate, successfully protecting Valenton’s woodlands from speculative development and playing a pivotal role in establishing the Plage Bleue departmental park. Julien Duranton left an undeniable mark on Valenton. This avenue, pulsating with the energy of the town he helped build, stands as a testament to his legacy.
Центральный дом работников искусств
Step through the grand wooden doors of the Central House of the Workers of Art, and you’ll be transported to