The New Administrative Center project of the Government of São Paulo, auctioned on February 26, includes the construction of a new bus terminal in downtown São Paulo that will replace the current Princesa Isabel Terminal. The new facility will be built near the future state government complex in Campos Elíseos, in the Luz area, facilitating passenger integration with metro and CPTM rail lines.
The project, developed by the Secretariat of Partnerships and Investments (SPI) in collaboration with the Secretariat for Strategic Projects (SPE), is part of a total investment of R$ 6 billion through a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) to build the Government’s new administrative headquarters and promote the urban revitalization of the city center. Construction of the terminal is scheduled to begin in the first year of the concession and to be completed in the second year of the contract.
The new terminal will be located next to Luz Station and the new CPTM tunnel currently under construction on Avenida Cásper Líbero, eliminating the need for additional connection structures to integrate with the rail systems. “The site of the new terminal already guarantees integration with the Metro and CPTM network. This makes things much easier, because users will not need any special connections to access the public transport network. Access can be made directly from the sidewalk, in a simple and efficient way,” explained Edgard Benozatti, president of the São Paulo Partnerships Company (CPP).
The full transfer of operations will only occur once the new terminal is fully operational. “The transfer of bus lines and passengers will only take place after the future terminal is completely operational, ensuring continuity and quality of service for the population,” Benozatti added.
Urban revitalization
The new terminal is part of the broader plan to revitalize downtown São Paulo, since the area currently occupied by the Princesa Isabel Terminal — Princesa Isabel Park, owned by the São Paulo City Hall — was donated to the State Government through Law No. 18,176, enacted on July 25, 2024. In addition to the physical works, the winning concessionaire will also be required to conduct studies focused on improving mobility and traffic in the surrounding area, as stipulated in the contract.
The New Campos Elíseos Administrative Center project includes the construction of seven buildings and ten towers that will house the governor’s office and state secretariats currently spread across more than 40 addresses in the city. The new structure will accommodate approximately 22,000 public servants and will also feature a theater, auditoriums, multipurpose rooms, and other spaces.
“The new Administrative Center of the Government of São Paulo represents one of the largest architectural projects in the history of the capital. This initiative goes far beyond reorganizing the State: it combines administrative efficiency, restoration of historical heritage, and social transformation in the heart of São Paulo. More than building new structures, we are repositioning downtown São Paulo as a space for coexistence, citizenship, and human development,” concluded Guilherme Afif, Secretary for Strategic Projects.
Public approval
The relocation of the Administrative Center to the heart of the capital also has the approval of the city’s population. A survey conducted by the Datafolha Institute, which interviewed 1,564 people, revealed that 83% of residents or workers in the central region believe the area will become safer. Respondents also expect improvements in urban cleanliness (80%), job opportunities (74%), tourism in the region (70%), and housing conditions (55%). Among the city’s general population, 64% of São Paulo residents consider the change excellent or good, and 77% believe security conditions will improve. Additionally, between 79% and 84% believe the project will bring more benefits than drawbacks for residents, business owners, workers, and the city as a whole.
Investment Partnerships Program (PPI-SP)
The New Administrative Center project is part of PPI-SP, an initiative of the State Government aimed at expanding opportunities for investment, employment, and socio-economic, technological, environmental, and industrial development in São Paulo.
With a focus on Highways, Mobility, Social Infrastructure, and Water/Energy, PPI-SP is implementing the largest and most comprehensive private investment program in the history of São Paulo, benefiting the population and boosting regional economic growth. In total, more than 30 projects have been qualified, representing an investment portfolio exceeding R$ 550 billion.