Shortlist of contractors to build US$329 million first phase of metro involving 2.3 km underground in city centre and to convert existing 22 km suburban line together with nine stations and depot. Second phase worth US$182 million to convert 19 km line to metro operation. Nov 1998.
Alstom reports award of US$87 million turnkey contract for 24 km line with 17 stations (three of which are underground) linking Joao Felipe in the city centre to Villa Das Flores in the suburbs. March 1999.
