DSOP unveils Areia Preta mudflat revamp with promenade, facilities

The Public Works Bureau (DSOP) has unveiled a project aimed at revamping the mudflat located on Av. Norte do Hipódromo in the Areia Preta district.

The project aims to create a coastal promenade with several public facilities that will connect to the upcoming Light Rapid Transit (LRT) station, which is part of the under-construction East Line.

According to DSOP, “the government plans to start the design and construction work for the revamp of the infrastructure on the periphery of Av. Norte do Hipódromo and the construction of the waterfront leisure area.”

This revamp includes the widening of Av. Norte do Hipódromo and Av. da Ponte da Amizade, the construction of a viaduct, a flood prevention dike, and drainage and wastewater interception systems, among other projects, the DSOP noted.

“In addition, during the construction of the East Line of the LRT, full use will be made of the mudflat planning area and the ‘V-shaped land plot’ to carry out its integrated planning and, linked with the LRT facilities, create a public space with recreational and sports facilities, leisure facilities for families, a waterfront, and tree planting, which will be opened concurrently with the start of operation of the East Line of the LRT in 2029,” the bureau remarked in a press statement.

DSOP explained that the integrated project aims not only to create a link to the LRT but also to alleviate traffic pressure, optimize road support facilities in the area, facilitate the movement of residents and tourists, address coastal pollution issues, and improve the environment in the area, among other objectives.

The project will be carried out in five parts, which include strengthening the connection to Border Gate by building a pedestrian walkway at ES1 Station to provide direct access to the border post; optimizing the road environment through street widening; and increasing flood prevention and drainage capacity in the area.

The project also includes the construction of a public car park and the creation of the coastal promenade leisure area.