The urban renewal and revitalization projects in downtown Oranjestad, including the student housing complex and Cas Veneranda, are progressing well, according to Minister Geoffrey Wever.
The revitalization of Oranjestad is a key priority for the AVP-Futuro Cabinet. A notable example is the transformation of the former Public Prosecutor’s Office — a building that had been abandoned for years and was at risk of becoming a ruin. Thanks to a clear vision and close collaboration with the foundation for Aruban community housing (FCCA), a plan was developed to rescue the building and give it a new purpose. Today, the project is moving forward with the goal of creating student housing, contributing to the broader effort to transform Oranjestad’s city center.
This initiative is part of a wider, integrated strategy aimed at revitalizing the heart of Oranjestad by converting abandoned spaces into vibrant centers of opportunity and development.
Cas Veneranda
Significant progress is also being made at Cas Veneranda on Wilhelminastraat — a historic building currently undergoing full restoration. The building is set to house the Department of Economic Affairs, Commerce, and Industry once completed.
Minister Wever emphasized that relocating government departments back into the city center helps generate daily foot traffic, which directly benefits local businesses. These projects represent key building blocks of the comprehensive plan to breathe new life into Oranjestad’s core.
The AVP-Futuro Cabinet has placed the revitalization of Oranjestad at the top of its governing agenda and remains committed to advancing this important initiative.
