Yesterday afternoon, Infrastructure Minister René Herde and Economic Affairs Minister Geoffrey Wever, together with several investors and business owners, toured downtown to review the status of multiple buildings in the city center.
Investor representative Elton Arends shared intentions and ready-to-start plans for various properties along Caya Grandi. Many are already under full renovation or will begin soon.
Minister Herde noted that a previous AVP administration began downtown renewal, but little progress was made over the last seven-and-a-half years. Now is the time to resume and accelerate the plan. An initial Afl. 1 million has been allocated, though significantly more will be needed to achieve the vision.
The renewal is being shaped by ideas from merchants, investors, and residents of Caya Grandi. Government will use different tools—fiscal incentives, legal measures, and permits (including temporary “precario” permits)—to stimulate investment.
Herde’s goal is to “bring life back to Caya Grandi”: more people living downtown and restaurants staying open later to revive nighttime activity. Work will start with the two key streets, Caya Betico Croes and Wilhelminastraat, then expand to John G. Emanstraat, the Rancho area, Dakota, Companashi, and the broader center.
The full plan is not expected to be finished within the next three years, but the government emphasizes that revitalizing the city center is vital for Aruba’s economy and quality of life, regardless of which party is in power. This is just the beginning, and authorities invite anyone with ideas and the will to invest to participate.
Photo Credits : https://diario.aw/categories/noticia/general/inversion-y-plan-grandi-ta-continua-pa-caya-grandi-y-centro-di-ciudad
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