On 7 February 2014, the Government of Aruba has launched the tender process for a new PPP road project for the island, the Watty Vos Boulevard.

The work involves rebuilding some 7km of road along a 17km stretch as well as upgrading 12 intersections and building two overpasses around Oranjestad between intersection Sabana Blanco and intersection Punta Brabo.

The project will be developed on a design, build, finance and maintain basis for a period of 22 years, the construction period is estimated at about 2 years, and the other 20 involves the maintenance of the road.

The total cost of the project is estimated at around US$120 million.

Candidates may submit requests for clarification during the selection phase until no later than April 9, 2014 (5:00 PM Aruban time). Interested companies must submit their request to participate on April 30, 2014, between 10:30 a.m. and 12:00 noon. 

PwC is the transaction advisor to the contracting authority. The Dutch Ministry of Infrastructure and the local legal firm Sjiem Fat &Co. are part of the team.

The objectives of the project are the improvement of  traffic flows and shortens travel times and improves road safety through delivery of new infrastructure between Reina Beatrix and L.G. Smith Boulevard / J.E. Irausquin Boulevard, the relocation of the existing port of Aruba to Barcadera, and the improvement of the appearance and traffic safety in low-rise hotel zone.