O rodoanel metropolitano de Belo Horizonte: efeitos potenciais na acessibilidade e mobilidade urbanas da Região Metropolitana de Belo Horizonte

Abstract

Historically, the development of a road system plays a crucial role in shaping urban space, acting as one of the fundamental elements in the formation of cities. In this context, the construction of new roads is closely linked to the urban planning models adopted in cities, forming a key part of the strategic planning processes overseen by public authorities. Similarly, major urban projects serve as important tools for territorial management, merging planning principles with the interests of various stakeholders, such as contractors and those advocating for automobile mobility. These projects often lead to changes in the road system through the implementation of large-scale infrastructure works. Such urban initiatives also reflect the concept of “state logistics,” where the government, through its institutions, drives changes in traffic flow patterns. The Metropolitan Region of Belo Horizonte (RMBH), one of Brazil’s most populous urban areas, exemplifies the deep connection between urban spaces and the road system. In the 1960s, as the region expanded, the creation of the Anel Rodoviário (Road Ring) aimed to divert traffic away from the capital, which is intersected by three major federal highways—BRs 040, 262, and 381. Over time, however, due to rapid urban growth, the highway has become integrated into the city’s urban fabric, distorting its original function. In response, the proposal to construct a new urban highway, the Rodoanel, seeks to redirect traffic from the densest urban areas. This thesis aims to estimate the potential impacts on mobility and accessibility resulting from the Rodoanel’s implementation by projecting travel routes that incorporate the new highway. The analysis was carried out using large-scale routing algorithms and applications, allowing for a projection of freight and individual vehicle traffic behavior. The results showed that the Rodoanel would see limited usage along its over 100-kilometer length, with no route fully covering its entire span. Additionally, the study highlighted important variations in travel flows and their likely urban impacts.