Regional Deal Office Opens in St. Eustatius

St. Eustatius Embarks on Transformative Journey with Regional Deal 2026

The island of St. Eustatius, a special municipality of the Netherlands, is embarking on a significant journey of transformation and revitalization through the Regional Deal: Statia 2026 program. This ambitious multi-year partnership between the Statia Government and the Netherlands Government, officially launched in January 2025, aims to bolster the island’s sustainable development, preserve its rich cultural heritage, and strengthen its social and economic resilience. The program represents a collaborative effort to address critical areas of development and enhance the overall quality of life for Statia’s residents. The establishment of the Regional Deal Office marks a crucial step forward in this initiative, providing a central hub for project management, community engagement, and government collaboration. This dedicated office will serve as the nerve center for coordinating the various projects encompassed within the Regional Deal and ensuring effective communication and collaboration among all stakeholders.

At the helm of the Regional Deal Office are the newly appointed Programme Managers, Raimie Richardson and Nicole Asin, who have assumed the responsibility from Theo Telting. Their leadership will be instrumental in steering the program’s progress, ensuring transparent communication with the community, and fostering active public participation in the island’s transformation. The program’s success hinges on effective leadership and community involvement, and the appointment of these dedicated professionals signals a strong commitment to realizing the program’s ambitious goals. The Regional Deal represents a substantial investment in Statia’s future, and the leadership of Richardson and Asin will be crucial in navigating the complexities of the program and ensuring its successful implementation.

The Regional Deal encompasses a portfolio of impactful projects designed to revitalize key aspects of Statia’s infrastructure and cultural heritage. One of the flagship projects focuses on the restoration and redevelopment of Fort Oranje, a historic landmark on the island. This project aims to transform Fort Oranje into a fully functioning museum that showcases the island’s rich history, while also creating a dynamic public space that houses a conference room, gift shop, and café. The revitalized Fort Oranje will not only preserve the island’s historical legacy but also serve as a vibrant hub for community activities and tourism. The project’s multifaceted approach aims to create a sustainable and engaging destination that benefits both residents and visitors.

Further demonstrating the program’s commitment to honoring Statia’s history and heritage, a new National Memorial Park will be created. This solemn space will serve as a place of remembrance and reflection, dedicated to honoring the enslaved ancestors who played a significant role in the island’s history. The park will also feature a unique collection of national trees contributed by various countries, symbolizing unity, respect, and shared history. This symbolic gesture underscores the importance of international collaboration and acknowledges the interconnectedness of global communities. The National Memorial Park will serve as a poignant reminder of the past and a beacon of hope for the future.

Another significant project within the Regional Deal involves the restoration of the Madam Theatre. This historic venue will be revitalized into a vibrant space for arts, culture, performances, and community events. Currently in the final design phases, the restoration project is being undertaken by architects from Michael Newton & Co. in collaboration with the program’s team. The revitalized Madam Theatre will provide a much-needed platform for artistic expression and community gatherings, enriching the cultural landscape of Statia. This project reflects the program’s commitment to fostering creativity and providing a platform for artistic expression within the community.

In addition to these cultural and historical preservation projects, the Regional Deal addresses critical infrastructure needs. Plans are underway for the development of a new Integrated Healthcare Facility, aimed at improving access to medical services and addressing the long-term health needs of the population. This crucial project will significantly enhance the quality of healthcare on the island, ensuring that residents have access to modern and comprehensive medical services. Furthermore, the revitalization of the botanical gardens is also part of the plan which is vital for eco-tourism. These projects underscore the Regional Deal’s holistic approach to community development, focusing not only on preserving the past but also on building a healthy and sustainable future for Statia. The Statia Government expresses its sincere gratitude to all supporting ministries in the European Netherlands for their continued cooperation and partnership in advancing these transformative initiatives. This collaborative effort demonstrates a shared commitment to Statia’s future and reflects the strong bond between the island and the Netherlands. The Regional Deal: Statia 2026 represents a significant investment in the island’s future, promising to create a more resilient, prosperous, and vibrant community for all its residents.