Next, Marcelo Crivella's* opinion column published in O Globo newspaper:
Porto Maravilha lives a moment of definitions, and there are two possibilities: the legalization of an integrated resort - with two hotel towers, a convention and exhibition center and a casino - and the municipalization of the Gamboa Pier. Both will represent a strong stimulus for the consortium urban operation in the Port Region. The theme concerns the Brazilian worker: the Service Assurance Fund (FGTS) has already invested US$ 2.1 billion in infrastructure and maintenance of the public-private partnership (PPP). Still another US$1.2 billion is planned for the next seven years.
In the hands of the National Congress, a bill to legalize casinos awaits a vote. The approval will enable the construction of a tourist complex in the region. The activity will encourage the sale of Cepacs (titles required to the entrepreneur who wishes to change the built area). These securities, whose negotiation is the responsibility of Caixa Econômica Federal, finance the works and services in Porto Maravilha. Investments can reach US$2.65 billion. The city hall is constantly being sought by interested groups, but legislation immobilizes businesses.
What other countries did was grant a single casino license as a laboratory. The discussion in our Congress is where these resorts should be located. Each bench presents its arguments. But Porto Maravilha is the only place in Brazil where the venture will be for all Brazilian workers at the same time.
The second factor: it is fundamental to municipalize the Cais da Gamboa. This will mean giving new use to warehouses now restricted to sporadic events. We will see the installation of a gastronomy pole and an entertainment center. The change of management will open the way for the construction of the largest boulevard in the world. The project will extend from Orla Conde to the bus station. It will be six kilometers from the city's youngest park, today it is 3.5 kilometers. The area of Santo Cristo holds the largest potential builder of buildings with up to 150 meters and vocation to be a financial center.
With both decisions, Porto Maravilha will serve as an example to recover other degraded areas, in addition to generating business and opportunities. The Port Region needs to develop its full potential. It belongs to all Brazilian workers.
* Marcelo Crivella is Rio de Janeiro’s mayor
Source: GMB / O Globo
