São Paulo subway operator prepares tender for works on new US$3.2bn line

São Paulo state’s subway operator, Companhia do Metropolitano de São Paulo, unveiled details of works to be contracted for the construction of line No. 19, which will demand an estimated investment of 19.5bn reais (US$3.22bn).

"The company is preparing the bidding document to launch the tender process in the first quarter of 2025 for the contracting of the executive project, system implementation, and civil works for 17.6km of tracks, 15 stations, and a maintenance yard," the state government said in a statement.

"The goal is to sign the contracts and begin development of the executive project by the end of 2025, enabling the start of construction in 2026. Once construction begins, works are expected to be completed within 72 months."

The tender will consist of three lots.

The first lot will involve five stations and six ventilation shafts (VSEs) between Bosque Maia and Itapegica. The second will include five stations and six VSEs between Jardim Julieta and Vila Maria, along with the Vila Medeiros yard. And the third lot will comprise five stations and six VSEs, from Catumbi to Anhangabaú.

The works will include adjustments to the existing São Bento and Anhangabaú stations, both of which will be connected to the future line. It will also involve the supply and implementation of auxiliary systems, including escalators, elevators, ventilation, fire detection systems, and the energy systems required for the stations’ operations.

Line No. 19 will connect Guarulhos, the second most populous municipality in São Paulo state, with the state capital. It will have 31 trains with capacity of transporting 630,000 passengers per day.

The state government has yet to decide whether the line will be operated under a PPP or a concession.