City Hall announces urbanization works in Horto to improve drainage, leisure and quality of life.

The project will revitalize the urban space, improve local infrastructure, and expand public spaces - Photo: Press Release/City Hall

The mayor of Rio de Janeiro, Eduardo Cavaliere, announced this Saturday (April 25th) the urbanization works in the Horto region, in the South Zone, with interventions planned for Largo das Pedras and Grotão. The project was developed by the Municipal Urbanization Company (Rio-Urbe) and the works will be carried out by the Municipal Infrastructure Secretariat. The objective is to requalify the urban space, improve the local infrastructure and expand the areas for residents and visitors to socialize. The estimated investment is approximately R$ 8,9 million.

"We made a series of commitments to the Federal Government to make this possible. So we are going to create the first 'Green Wonder Neighborhood' here, and make this project in Horto a benchmark for sustainability within the Rio de Janeiro City Hall. All the materials used in the project will be special," said the mayor.

The proposal includes the installation of interlocking permeable paving blocks, which allow for greater absorption of rainwater by the soil, helping to reduce accumulation points and improve drainage. Furthermore, the project emphasizes nature-based solutions, integrating the urban environment with local characteristics.

"This is one of the first projects we're undertaking using permeable pavement, so we can absorb the water and avoid traditional asphalt, fulfilling a request from residents. We're going to build a drainage network, restore the water supply network, and also the sewage system," stated the Secretary of Infrastructure, Wanderson Santos.

In Largo das Pedras, the works will transform the space into a more organized and inviting area, with the creation of a small square equipped with a pergola, benches and seating areas, as well as a children's playground, hammock area and spaces dedicated to socializing and reading. Pedestrian circulation will also be improved, ensuring greater comfort and safety in daily life. The interventions will directly benefit Liberato Barroso, Mateus Vicente and Nelson Tinoco streets, as well as Ladeira das Margaridas.

In Grotão, the proposal expands leisure and sports options with the implementation of a soccer field, a mini multi-sports court, fitness areas, and children's play areas. There are also plans for communal spaces distributed throughout the area, encouraging collective use and the meaningful occupation of the territory. The works will be concentrated along Estrada do Grotão, the main axis of the area. The City Hall anticipates that the bidding process for the execution of the works will be completed this year.