WILLEMSTAD - Nearly six months after a devastating fire, work has begun on restoring the palapas at the beach of Marí Pampoen. These popular shady resting spots were set on fire by vandals in November 2023.
The fire brigade from Steenrijk and the police from Punda were quickly on the scene at the time but were unable to prevent all three palapas from burning down completely. Despite extensive investigation, the perpetrators have not yet been identified or arrested.
The Curaçao Tourist Board (CTB) and the Ministry of Economic Development have jointly established a funding trajectory through insurance, and after successfully completing the tendering process, the construction of new palapas is now underway. The new structures will replace those damaged by the fire and provide the beach with renewed facilities for recreation and relaxation.
The recreation park at Marí Pampoen is an essential social and recreational hub for both local residents and visitors. It provides space for children to play, for adults to engage in sports, and for community events.