The restoration of the water tower in Oranjestad has officially begun. The restoration of this historic building is expected to be completed within six months.
The restoration work includes the repair of all concrete columns and roof parts of the building. This will be done with a special type of concrete which will protect all repaired areas against natural conditions. Two additional floors will be constructed in the tower as well as an extension having an elevator and stairway. Once restoration is completed the water tower house the offices for the LAR advisory committee.
Background
The water tower in Oranjestad was opened in 1939 by the water and energy company at that time.The reservoir had a maximum capacity of 400 liters. An office was located on the ground floor and the other levels located a data bank and a warehouse. Two identical water towers in Oranjestad and San Nicolas became unnecessary after the water company opened a plant in Balashi. Subsequently the water tower accommodated several government offices. In 2001 the tower was evacuated and the water company placed installed guards to protect the building. However this was only for a short time, after which the the water tower was closed. In 2005 the foundation responsible for national monuments assumed responsibility for the tower.
