Work on John G. Eman building scheduled to begin in mid-October

Work on John G. Eman building scheduled to begin in mid-October

Posted on 10/1/2026, 7:08 AM AST | Updated on 10/1/2026, 7:08 AM AST

ORANJESTAD — The project to restore and repurpose the historic John G. Eman building on Caya G.F. Betico Croes is preparing to enter its execution phase. According to Minister Geoffrey Wever, tendering for the first phase is scheduled for October 2, with dismantling work expected to begin in mid-October.

This phase will remove non-heritage elements to prepare the historic structure for restoration. Wever met with Stichting Monumentenfonds Aruba to review progress and coordinate the next steps.

The former Aruba Bank building will combine offices for the Central Bureau of Statistics (CBS) and the Social and Economic Council (SER) with apartments and commercial/hospitality space. Designs and plans for the different uses are in their final stages of development.

The building was officially transferred to Monumentenfonds in December 2025. The project forms part of efforts to revitalise downtown Oranjestad by preserving historic heritage and combining work, housing and economic activity in one building.