the programa de aceleração do crescimento - pac (program for acceleration and growth) is an important government program aimed specifically at developing regions through investment in infrastructure in areas such as sanitation, housing, transportation, energy, and water resources.

urbanization and development of many favelas, including installation of water service, electricity, cable tv, trash removal, and proper sewage spurred local micro-economic activity and further improved safety.

a variety of new social programs is now providing opportunities to people who previously might have been enlisted by criminal factions. due to the world cup and olympics, and also due to the major economic development in the region, rio de janeiro has been undergoing  major improvements in safety and crime prevention.