METRO Magazine Logo
MenuMENU
SearchSEARCH

Rio's public transport transformation may be biggest legacy of Olympics

The biggest changes in the city's public transportation will include three bus rapid transit (BRT) lines, destruction of the Perimetral highway and the introduction of a light rail tram system.

August 6, 2015
Rio's public transport transformation may be biggest legacy of Olympics

Construction of the Transbrasil BRT line. Photo: Cidade Olimpica

1 min to read


Construction of the Transbrasil BRT line. Photo: Cidade Olimpica

RIO DE JANEIRO — The impact on roadway traffic and transportation infrastructure, in the notoriously congested city of Rio de Janeiro, might well be one of the biggest legacies of the 2016 Olympic Games, The Rio Times reported.

The biggest public transportation impact on the West Zone of the city will be caused by the three bus rapid transit (BRT) lines. One of the lines, the Transolimpica, will reduce traveling time from two hours between the neighborhoods of Recreio and Deodoro to just thirty minutes, according to the report.

Within Centro, the financial heart of the city, the two biggest changes in transportation are the destruction of the Perimetral highway and the introduction of a light rail tram, The Rio Times said.

Ad Loading...

“A lot of what is for the Olympics: the BRT, the metro expansion, the demolition of the Perimetral, are things the city asked for for a long time and the Olympics helped a lot in this process," Rio Mayor Eduard Paes told The Rio Times. For the full story, click here.


More Management

Terrel Smith

Terrel Smith Launches New TransitOne Venture, Focuses on Building Relationships

The company partners with manufacturers such as Kiel Seating, Camira Fabric, and TSI Video, focusing on areas that directly impact both passenger experience and operational performance.

Read More →
A group of people stand in the Harlem-148 Street 3 Station and pose during a ribbon cutting ceremony.
Managementby StaffMay 4, 2026

New Accessibility Upgrades Open at Harlem Subway Station

A new ADA-compliant ramp and station upgrades improve access, enhance the rider experience, and deliver millions in cost savings for the MTA.

Read More →
Erin Hockman
Managementby StaffMay 4, 2026

Iowa's DART Taps New CEO

Erin Hockman will officially assume the role on May 7, as current CEO Amanda Wanke departs to take a leadership position with Metro Transit in the Twin Cities.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
Caltrain trains on tracks
Railby StaffMay 1, 2026

Caltrain Survey Shows Record-High Rider Approval

The survey showed that commute trips still make up the majority of ridership, with most riders boarding 2 to 3 days a week, reflecting hybrid work schedules. Two-thirds of Caltrain riders have access to a car, while 37% of Caltrain riders are considered low-income.

Read More →
A VIA bus
Busby StaffMay 1, 2026

San Antonio's VIA Launches Next Round of Bus Improvements

The changes are designed to reduce overall travel time, shorten wait times, and get customers to their destinations more quickly.

Read More →
A graphic of a map showing a "Snapshot of Systemwide Vulnerabilities (projected)."
Managementby News/Media ReleaseMay 1, 2026

MBTA Unveils First Systemwide Climate Resilience Roadmap

The plan outlines strategies to protect transit infrastructure from extreme weather, prioritize critical investments, and improve system reliability as climate risks intensify.

Read More →
Ad Loading...

People Movement: DART Names Interim Chief, Clean Energy Taps New President/CEO

In this edition, we cover recent appointments and announcements at MCTS, Voith, and more, showcasing the individuals helping to shape the future of transportation.

Read More →
A person working on a bus
ManagementMay 1, 2026

Data-Driven Maintenance: Focusing Effort Where It Matters Most

Advances in data and analytics are giving transit agencies new opportunities to refine maintenance practices, improve efficiency and make more informed decisions about asset performance.

Read More →
transit tracker connectpoint
Sponsoredby Alex RomanMay 1, 2026

Connectpoint Expands Digital Signage Strategy with LED Push

Connectpoint is enhancing its digital signage strategy by integrating LED technology into its services.

Read More →
Ad Loading...
frontrunner bus
SponsoredMay 1, 2026

ADA Compliant Transit: Easier, More Dignified Travel for Every Passenger

Today’s riders—and the communities you serve—expect more from public transit. While ADA compliance is required, leading transit agencies know that true accessibility also means delivering dignity, efficiency, and a better rider experience. This whitepaper reveals why forward thinking agencies nationwide choose the Low Floor Frontrunner as their first choice for ADA compliant vehicles—setting a new standard with passenger first design, faster boarding, improved safety, and unmatched operational performance.

Read More →