WILLEMSTAD - Fundashon Pro Monumento, a heritage organization, has initiated a petition titled Save Our Beaches and Bays to call on the government to reconsider its plans to modernize several of Curaçao’s beaches, including Caracasbaai, Lagun, Zakito, and Jeremi. The foundation is concerned that these modernization efforts are leading to the loss of the beaches' unique local character, under the guise of progress and tourism development.
The petition highlights the replacement of traditional elements with large concrete structures and artificial attractions, which not only affect the cultural and historical significance of these locations but also pose environmental threats. Key issues include the destruction of mangroves and coral reefs, vital components of the local ecosystem. Generations of families have used these beaches for activities such as swimming, snorkeling, and spending time together, and the foundation warns that these authentic experiences are now under threat.
These concerns intensified after Prime Minister Gilmar Pisas announced a new project to transform Caracasbaai earlier this year, on January 3rd. The project, estimated at a cost of ten million guilders, includes new swimming facilities, sports areas for tennis and beach volleyball, concert venues, kiosks, public restrooms, accessibility features for people with disabilities, and a parking garage. The design for the transformation, created by Forever Young Architecture, has an initial budget of three million guilders for the first phase.
Fundashon Pro Monumento fears that these extensive developments could permanently alter the beaches' natural and cultural identities. The foundation urges the government to protect the historical and environmental significance of these beloved public spaces.