As part of the government’s ongoing vision to revitalize downtown Oranjestad, an official signing and handover ceremony for the historic John G. Eman building took place Monday morning. The event was attended by Prime Minister Mike Eman, Minister of Finance and Economic Affairs Geoffrey Wever, members of the Eman family, representatives of Aruba Bank N.V., and Stichting Monumentenfonds Aruba.
The official transfer of the building to Stichting Monumentenfonds Aruba represents a significant milestone in the broader revitalization strategy for Oranjestad. The ceremony follows the signing of an intention agreement in December 2024 between Aruba Bank N.V., Monumentenfonds Aruba, and the National Restoration Fund (Nationaal Restauratiefonds). After a lengthy and complex process involving multiple challenges, the formal transfer has now been successfully completed.
During the ceremony, Aruba Bank N.V. officially transferred ownership of the building, allowing the restoration and redevelopment phase to begin. The renovated structure will eventually house the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) and the Social Economic Council (SER).
To facilitate the project, Monumentenfonds Aruba secured favorable financing through the National Restoration Fund. In addition, the AVP–Futuro government arranged a subsidy of Afl. 412,000, which was approved by Parliament and formalized through a national decree signed by Prime Minister Mike Eman and Minister Geoffrey Wever.
Located on G.F. “Betico” Croes Street, the iconic John G. Eman building will be restored with full respect for its historical and architectural value. The redevelopment plan includes government offices for CBS and SER, a residential apartment on the upper floor, and a commercial hospitality space with a terrace, contributing to increased activity and urban vibrancy in downtown Oranjestad.
The restoration and adaptive reuse of the building form a key component of the AVP–Futuro government’s strategy to bring daily life back into the city center by housing government institutions in historic properties. Minister Wever emphasized that this approach strengthens economic activity and community presence in Oranjestad.
Minister Wever expressed gratitude to Aruba Bank N.V., Stichting Monumentenfonds Aruba—especially Anne Witsenburg—the National Restoration Fund, and the AVP–Futuro Cabinet for their close cooperation. He highlighted the project as a strong example of how public-private partnerships can deliver tangible benefits for the Aruban community.
The descendants of John G. Eman were also congratulated during the ceremony. John G. Eman and the Aruba Bank he founded played a crucial role in Aruba’s economic development by financing local businesses and helping many citizens achieve homeownership. His legacy now becomes a lasting part of Aruba’s national heritage.
