The construction of student housing building in Oranjestad officially began this week, marking a significant step in the ongoing renovation and revitalization of the city center. The project is part of the broader Oranjestad revitalization initiative, which includes the repurposing of the old Banco Central building, which later became the Ministry of Public Affairs.
Present at the groundbreaking ceremony were Prime Minister Mike Eman, Minister of Education Gerlien Croes, Minister of Finance Geoffrey Wever, Minister of Infrastructure Rene Herde, FCCA Directors Julie Wever and Giovanni Anthony, University of Aruba Rector Sue-Ann Lee, Contractor CH, and Architect Raffy Kock.
Minister Geoffrey Wever expressed his satisfaction with the start of the project, noting that the building, which had been abandoned for many years, would now serve as a student housing complex with approximately 25 apartments for students. The building will also feature a restaurant or bar on the ground floor.
“The renovation of this building is a key part of revitalizing Oranjestad’s city center. We are committed to bringing life back to the heart of the city. Once completed, around 25 students will live in the center of Oranjestad, creating a completely new atmosphere in the city. This project is a demonstration of our vision to make Oranjestad a vibrant place to live,” said Minister Wever.
The project stems from an agreement made in 2022 between the government of Aruba, FCCA, and the University of Aruba. As part of this agreement, the government transferred the Ex-OM building to FCCA, which will renovate it into a student housing complex. This project is aligned with the AVP-FUTURO 2025-2028 governance program, which focuses on revitalizing Oranjestad’s city center and renewing its infrastructure and buildings.
Minister Wever thanked FCCA for believing in the vision to revitalize Oranjestad and for taking on the challenge of transforming the old building into modern student housing. He also acknowledged the contribution of the University of Aruba, highlighting the project’s importance for the revitalization of the city.
