Launch of Pilot Project for Main Street Cleaning in Oranjestad
ORANJESTAD – A pilot project featuring a specialized street sweeper from RJ Road Cleaning and Services was recently launched. The sweeper both sweeps and steams the ground, specifically designed to clean the tiles and pavers in the area.
Minister of Housing, Infrastructure, and Telecommunications Dr. René Herdé, along with the director and team from the Department of Public Works (DOW), attended the launch on main street in downtown Oranjestad (Caya G.F. Betico Croes).
During the test, the machine demonstrated how it works on the existing pavers along Main Street. The goal is to evaluate a more effective street-cleaning method and contribute to better maintenance in the area.
Main Street presents several specific cleaning challenges. Beyond the surface type, workers must also navigate the streetcar tracks running through the road. This requires any equipment or method used in the area to adapt to existing infrastructure while operating carefully.
The pilot project is also key to ongoing efforts to revitalize downtown Oranjestad. While several initiatives focus on downtown revitalization, maintenance and cleaning remain essential to keeping the area in top shape.
As one of Oranjestad’s central hubs, Main Street sees heavy foot traffic from residents and visitors daily. This high level of activity puts extra strain on cleaning and upkeep, making it necessary to continuously seek effective ways to manage public spaces.
For Minister Herdé, this test fits into his ministry’s focus on infrastructure maintenance and downtown Oranjestad’s revitalization. The initiative also aligns with broader government efforts to keep Aruba clean.
The pilot project allows DOW to evaluate the machine’s performance and determine how this method can support ongoing cleaning and maintenance on Main Street.