Neighborhood Action produces results at Esso Heights
The improvement of the basketball court at Esso Heights Park is a concrete example of how Accion di Bario (Neighborhood Action) continues to produce positive results in different neighborhoods across our island. The installation a few months ago of new LED lighting has created a safer and more accessible environment for the children, youth, and families who use the park daily.
Parliament in touch with our neighborhoods
Recently, Member of Parliament from the AVP Faction, Otami Thomasia, visited the basketball court to personally see the results of the improvements.
“Safety is always a priority. With this new lighting, our youth now have a safe place where they can gather, play basketball, run, and participate in recreational activities,” Thomasia declared.
According to the MP, the improvement benefits not only the athletes, but also the children and families who use the park regularly. She emphasized that the new lighting creates a safer and more pleasant environment for the community. This is reflected in the enthusiasm shown by the children during their training sessions, enjoying a space that is now more accessible, functional, and safe.
MP Thomasia also underlined that the maintenance and protection of public facilities is a shared responsibility between the government and the community.
“Everything that is improved in our neighborhood, we all must do our part to care for and preserve it,” Thomasia emphasized.
The MP thanked everyone who contributed to the realization of the project, including the residents of Esso Heights, the volunteers, the coaches, and other collaborators who provided their support during the process.
“There are many people who voluntarily dedicate their time to guide and mentor our youth. The work they do has immense value for our community,” Thomasia stated.
At the end of her visit, Thomasia emphasized that Aruba must continue to invest in recreational and safe spaces for our youth.
“Our youth need guidance, opportunities, and various safe places to develop. A project like this directly contributes to that,” Thomasia concluded.
Vision and execution for the well-being of our neighborhoods
During the neighborhood action that took place in the month of February in Esso Heights, Prime Minister Mike Eman, along with various government departments, visited the area and held a direct dialogue with residents to hear their concerns and identify needs that require attention. The neighborhood actions are not limited solely to home visits; they also include evaluations of recreational spaces, sports facilities, and other important aspects affecting the quality of life in the neighborhood.
During his visit to Esso Heights, Prime Minister Mike Eman observed that the park area needed not only cleaning and maintenance, but also upgrades to the existing facilities. One of the needs identified as a top priority was the lack of lighting in the park. The basketball court, which is regularly used for sports activities, faced limitations because the lack of light forced various activities to stop early.
To allow sports activities to continue and to create a safer environment for users, the decision was made to install new lighting in the park. Now that the lighting system is fully functional, the community can benefit from a more accessible and safe facility during the late afternoon and evening hours. Prime Minister Mike Eman often emphasizes that “the neighborhoods are the true heart of our people” and that a solid development of our communities is fundamental for the future of Aruba.
This result is a clear demonstration of how direct communication between the community and the government, combined with quick action, can lead to concrete solutions that improve the quality of life in our neighborhoods for everyone.
