Transportation and legacy are the topics that are usually in the same phrase when it comes to Rio2016. All the reports from the IOC show transportation improvements as the main legacy for the city. The 150 km of Bus Rapid Transport (BRT) that were built expedites day to day transportation within the entire city. Also a new Metro line that links Barra de Tijuca and the south zone was added. Finally, the VLT (Veículo Leve sobre Trilhos), a very modern light rail in the Centro region of the city was made operational.

At first sight these renovations seem to be most valuable improvements that the Olympic Games left the city. However, inspected at closer detail, the development of the transportation system only benefits one part of the society.

 

The Metro line development derailed the opportunity to develop a planned boat system that had been in the works for 20 years. In addition to that, the Metro extensions are only to wealthier areas. The VLT has a very short route, it is expensive and quite slow. Locals are wary of its usefulness. Moreover, to use the service, the normal Metro card does not work,which can lead to confusion for commuters. An improvement in transportation that is not mentioned a lot is the re-lighting of the city; including tunnels, beaches and parks. Despite the criticisms, transportation development was a significant aspect of 2016 Olympics’ legacy.