Rio Olympic officials finally begin long-delayed construction

In the midst of a highly entertaining World Cup, officials in Brazil have offered some more good news.

Construction has finally begun on Deodoro Olympic Park, the second largest site planned for the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Games.

Olympic preparations throughout the country have been hampered by construction delays, civil unrest and bureaucratic disorganization. Work at Deodoro was supposed to begin two years ago.

“This is a very important day,” said Carlos Nuzman, president of the Rio 2016 committee. “Today, Brazil has a highly positive image due to the FIFA World Cup, and I’m certain that our Games will be no different.”

International Olympic Committee leaders recently delivered a stern warning to Brazilian officials. The IOC also assigned a top executive to help the local organizing committee.

Deodoro will be divided into north and south regions separated by a rail line. It will include an arena and additional new venues along with several more venues that currently exist but require renovation.