The project aimed at transforming the intersection of Avenida São João and Avenida Ipiranga, in the center of São Paulo, into a sort of “Times Square” Brazilian was suspended by the Justice. The decision, taken by Judge Celina Kiyomi Toyoshima, of the 4th Public Treasury Court, prevents the installation of LED screens in historic buildings in the central region of the capital, at least for now. The project provided for the installation of bright screens on buildings such as Paris República Cinema, Herculano de Almeida Building, Sampa Gallery and New York Building, inspired by the famous tourist area of Times Square, in New York.
Administrative decision
The decision of Judge Celina Kiyomi was based on the “magnitude of the project”, the urban impact on the central region and the possible damage to the population before authorizing the proposal to advance. In addition, the magistrate ordered that the Municipality of São Paulo and those responsible for the project submit a series of documents to the Justice, including the integral term of cooperation of the project, minutes of technical meetings, urbanistic opinions, documents related to the historic heritage and records of public consultation carried out with the population. This shows that the Justice is seeking to ensure that the project is evaluated carefully and transparently, considering the interests of the population and the preserve of the city’s historic heritage.
Context
The suspension of the project could have practical consequences significant for the region and for the population. The installation of the LED screens could impact traffic and infrastructure in the area, as well as affect the quality of life of residents and traders in the area. In addition, the Sé region is an area that is already suffering from problems of visual pollution and urban disorder, and the installation of the LED screens could exacerbate them. The public consultation carried out with the population is also an important aspect to be considered, as it is essential that the population is heard and that its interests are respected in projects that affect the city.
Institutional implications
The decision of the Justice can also have institutional implications significant. The Municipality of São Paulo and those responsible for the project will have to re-evaluate the project and submit new documents to the Justice, which could lead to a delay in the project schedule. In addition, the decision can serve as a precedent for future projects that aim to intervene in historic and cultural areas of the city, showing that the Justice is attentive to the preservation of the heritage and the protection of the interests of the population. It is essential that those responsible for the project and the Municipality of São Paulo work together to find solutions that meet the needs of the population and respect the cultural heritage of the city.
