Infrastructure Minister René Herdé says Afl. 12 million is available this year for Aruba road repairs and construction, with the Department of Public Works (DOW) assessing which roads should receive priority, according to 24ora’s October 31 report.
Two funding sources make up the available budget
Herdé put the funding at Afl. 9 million from the development fund for asphalt work and Afl. 3 million in DOW’s budget, the outlet reported. He said the government wants to begin several construction and repair projects in the coming months.
The minister acknowledged concerns about road conditions and described limited funding as an obstacle. He also said the presence of only two asphalt companies on the island affects the cost of projects, according to 24ora.
DOW assessment will determine priorities
Residents in places including San Nicolas, Sero Preto and Tanki Leendert have asked for attention to their roads, the report said. Herdé explained that DOW’s technical system is being used to identify the roads in the poorest condition.
He said the government wants to move beyond short-lived pothole patching and use the limited budget for longer-lasting interventions. The source did not provide a complete list of selected roads or individual construction start dates.
Sero Colorado route and next year’s planning
Herdé also referred to support from the tourism ministry for a road project at the entrance to Sero Colorado in San Nicolas. That reference does not establish that all the roads mentioned by residents have been approved for work.
According to the report, the government is preparing its 2027 budget with the intention of continuing infrastructure work next year.
Source: Read the original 24ora report.
