Master of Urban and Regional Planning student Patrick Urbine will research how communities are reimagining car-centric transportation networks in São Paulo, Brazil.

University of New Orleans graduate student Patrick Urbine has been awarded a Fulbright Scholarship to research how communities are reimagining car-centric transportation networks in Brazil. Beginning in the spring 2025 semester, Urbine will spend nine months in São Paulo as he completes his Master of Urban and Regional Planning degree. 

According to Urbine, as the largest city in the Americas and one of the most car-centric cities in Brazil, São Paulo offers an excellent opportunity to study how communities can take steps to address social inequalities and expand mobility infrastructure for people to walk, bike and roll. His research project examines how biking habits in the center of São Paulo have been impacted by Ruas Abertas—a municipal initiative started in 2015 that temporarily closes roads to cars once a week for people. 

Urbine will use his professional experience working for New Orleans’ bikeshare system to understand how Ruas Abertas affects biking and mobility choices. 

“By bridging the gap between community members' right to the city and the imperative of climate action, the Ruas Abertas program represents a fundamental shift in transportation planning and a transformation of urban aspirations,” Urbine said. “As a Fulbright Fellow, this research project will promote mutual understanding between the U.S. and Brazil by uncovering the impacts of tactical urbanism and community organizing practices pioneered in São Paulo that I can employ as a community organizer in the car-centric U.S. to support the equitable development of human-scaled transportation solutions.”

Urbine earned bachelor's degrees in business management and political science/international development from Tulane University.

The Fulbright U.S. Student Program expands perspectives through academic and professional advancement and cross-cultural dialogue. In partnership with more than 140 countries worldwide, the Fulbright U.S. Student Program offers unparalleled opportunities in all academic disciplines to passionate and accomplished graduating college seniors, graduate students, and young professionals from all backgrounds.