CONTEXTO

Salvador, the first capital of Brazil, had its urban layout on a specific geography, formed by hills and valleys. This model of occupation was intensified after the 60s of the 20th century where, on the hills, occupation was residential, while the valleys had priority as a road transportation vector, leading to an unsustainable traffic congestion. The landscape resulting from this model is generally characterized by low occupancy density and wide range of horizons. This promotes considerable distances between the passenger catchment point and the stations. In this context, the stations are viewed at great distances, demanding a strong presence in the landscape, as a way of orientation, identification and attractiveness for users. Salvador is heir to a rich cultural condition, largely substantiated by the African and Portuguese heritage, present in all aspects of the city. In this context, the settlement of the metro system must recognize this heritage, establishing legitimacy and cultural insertion in a contemporary way, avoid stereotypes. The project, under public concession and private operation, encompasses a total of 9 typical above ground stations, 1 elevated station, 2 above ground stations under specific project conditions (including a large retrofit), 3 bus terminals, 13 kilometres of landscaped treatment with linear parks and bike path. Metro Line 2, located in the 60 meters-hide central separator of Paralela, an avenue with approximate extension of 13 km and responsible for the connection of the very dense central area in the city of Salvador, between the Central Bus Station and the Airport.

ACTUACIÓN

Previously, Bahia´s Metro construction works were frozen for about ten years, raising population’s doubt that the metro system would ever be concluded. As a result of strategies from the concession -project, building and operation- the metro system became reality. At the time we developed the metro stations, it was a premise to maintain the existing walkways (designed by an important Brazilian architect, Lelé). When JBMC´s contract was finished, on July 2015, other teams continued to design the system, which included new walkways and accesses. Built in the median strip of Avenida Paralela, the new stations occupy a once idle and pedestrian-hostile area. Access to stations is through fully accessible and safe footbridges spanning both sides of the thoroughfare. The footbridges are also a connecting element with a linear park. This 13 kilometre-long park runs parallel with the railway line, boasting a bike lane, a running track and landscaping. The line 2 metro system currently sees a daily flow of over 200,000 users as all the metro stations are operating in connection with bus stations. This line was designed to reach up to 400,000 daily boarding in 2030. It has turned a once gruelling journey from downtown Salvador to the Airport into a 28-minute ride. In the past, users were forced to endure 100-minute journeys in other means of transportation. Urban transportation equipment should be seen as a catalyst of urban growth and development, creating exciting opportunities, nurturing enterprises and bringing about social change. This is what is happening in Salvador.