(ATR) For the first time since the 1970s, Rio de Janeiro has a new metro line.
The metro line 4 expansion connecting the city’s South Zone and Barra da Tijuca was inaugurated today by acting President Michel Temer, Rio de Janeiro State Governor Luis Fernando Pezao, and Rio Mayor Eduardo Paes. It was one of Pezao’s first public appearances since beginning treatment for non-Hodgkin’s Lymphoma in March.
In his speech Temer emphasized the importance of increasing urban mobility, in any way, in the city. He said that "leisure and family life will be much more enjoyable," from all people having access to more metro stops. He also hoped that the international community would appreciate how the metro was delivered, as promised, before the Olympic Games.
"These Olympic Games will be used to energize Brazil as a whole, but also showcase Brazil, once again to international eyes, demonstrating the extraordinary unity that exists in our country," Temer said.
"From August 5, Rio will be the capital of the world."
The subway expansion cost $2.98 billion to complete, most of which was funded by the Rio State Government. The line features five new stops that connect with General Osorio station at the end of metro line 1. The final station, Jardim Oceanico, will connect with the Transoeste Bus Rapid Transit line, which will shuttle spectators directly to the Olympic Park.
Numerous delays have pushed back the delivery of the metro line to the brink, with organizers opening it less than one week before the 2016 Olympic Games. The metro was originally planned to be completed in 2015, and delays began in 2014.
Construction of the metro tunnel in Ipanema was done too close to the surface causing a large sinkhole to open up in May 2014. Organizers were forced to dig a new tunnel, which set the project off schedule. As the deadline to finish the metro before the Olympics loomed, organizers never wavered over the possibility of its completion.
During the Olympics passengers with Olympic tickets or accreditation are eligible to ride the new subway. Ticket holders must buy a special "Olympic Card," which costs $7 for one day of use, $20 for three days, and $45 for seven days.
The metro will be operational from 6 am to 1 am from August 5 to 21, with the exception of August 5, 6, 7, 12, 13, 18, and 21. On August 5 and 21 the metro will run from 7 am to 2 am. On August 6, 12, and 13, the metro will run from 6 am to 2 am. On August 7 and 18 the metro will run from 7 am to 1 am.
Written by Aaron Bauer in Rio de Janeiro
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