In 1904, the bridge was enlarged by 5.5 metres (18 feet) to support Line 6 of the Paris Métro.

In 1986, the decision was made to further enlarge the bridge in order to create three additional lanes for traffic.

The winning bid proposed doubling the bridge by adding extensions perfectly symmetrical to the underground viaduct.

Although identical in all respects to the original, the new addition is built of reinforced concrete and covered with a stone dressing.

The song mentions a philosopher sitting on the bridge, and two musicians playing there for a few onlookers.