Minister of Finance, Economic Affairs, and Primary Sector Geoffrey Wever announced that the public tender launched in October to select an architectural firm for the renovation and revitalization of Wilhelminastraat and its surrounding area is now officially closed. The initiative was announced earlier alongside Prime Minister Mike Eman and Minister of Infrastructure Rene Herde.
A total of seven architectural firms submitted their proposals, each presenting a visual plan for the designated area. This coming Thursday, a committee consisting of the three ministers along with four business owners from Wilhelminastraat will evaluate the submissions. Based on specially established criteria, the committee will select the most comprehensive and visually appealing plan.
The winning architect will then proceed to prepare the final design, construction documents, and all technical specifications needed to begin the renovation phase.
Revitalizing the Heart of Oranjestad
This project is part of the Government of Aruba’s ongoing efforts to revitalize the center of Oranjestad, stimulate commerce, and promote a mixed-use urban environment that supports residential life, gastronomy, offices, and retail.
The renovation plan covers the area from Wilhelminastraat 49/62 up to the Wilhelminastraat/Kazernestraat intersection (excluding Plaza Daniel Leo), as well as surrounding streets including Klipstraat, Oranjestraat, Rifstraat, and Schoolstraat.
The winning design will serve as the foundation for executing a structural and aesthetic transformation, intended to make Oranjestad more attractive for businesses, visitors, and residents.
Minister Wever emphasized the importance of the initiative, stating:
“We remain committed to creating a modern, vibrant, and sustainable Oranjestad. This public tender is a concrete step toward the urban renewal we have pledged to deliver.”
Through this process, the government reaffirms its commitment under the AVP-Futuro 2025–2028 Governance Program to strengthen Oranjestad’s city center and create new opportunities for economic growth and community well-being.
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