Work on the first construction project for the Rio 2016 Olympic and Paralympic Games began today. The redevelopment of Praça Mauá Pier, one of a number of improvements planned for the city’s port region, will transform the 30,000 square meter area into a leisure destination featuring bars, restaurants, an amphitheater, a multi-use space and parking. The start of building work was presided over by the minister of tourism, Luiz Barretto, Mayor Eduardo Paes, and the secretary general of Rio 2016, Carlos Roberto Osório.

The investment to revitalize Mauá Pier is budgeted at R$26.8 million. “This is the first Olympic construction project. The port is an important part of the city and is set to become a point of reference for Rio’s residents and tourists,” said Barretto.

The revitalization of the port of Rio de Janeiro is part of the candidature file submitted by the city to the IOC. The area will host a 1,840-bedroom Accommodation Village as well as cruise ships for additional accommodation. Besides the modernization of Mauá Pier, the “Marvelous Port” project includes improvements to main streets, the building of an underground car park for 1,000 vehicles, the restoration of historic buildings to create 499 new homes, an art gallery, and an interactive, scientific Museum of Tomorrow. “The work at Mauá Pier symbolizes a new era for Rio de Janeiro. We have shown the authorities’ keenness to begin the Olympic projects and fulfill the commitments we made to the IOC,” said Mayor Paes.

According to Carlos Roberto Osório, the port area’s historic buildings and docks will make it a new attraction, full of vitality, in the heart of Rio. “This is an important project for all cariocas,” he said. The port is in a central region, fundamental for Rio 2016, showing that the Olympic Games are progressing along with the city’s development. The people will benefit greatly over the long term.”