Brazil authorizes financing guarantee for Niterói VLT project

The Brazilian Federal Government has authorized a guarantee for R$ 182.15 million in financing to support the implementation of the Light Rail Vehicle (VLT) system in Niterói. This authorization, published in the Official Gazette, allows the Niterói City Hall to proceed with financing through Caixa Econômica Federal as part of the New PAC Sustainable Urban Mobility program.

The total financial structure for the project is estimated at approximately R$ 455.38 million. This includes R$ 273.23 million from New PAC resources and the R$ 182.15 million loan backed by the Union. The first stage of the VLT is expected to span 5 kilometers with ten stations, connecting Barreto to the city center through neighborhoods such as Engenhoca, Santana, and São Lourenço.

Construction has not yet begun, as the project awaits the completion of a Technical, Economic, and Environmental Feasibility Study (EVTEA), which is scheduled for conclusion in February 2027. Further steps will include finalizing the financing and conducting the bidding process for the works.