Revitalizing Philipsburg: TEATT Minister Unveils plan for a safer, greener, more vibrant capital

GREAT BAY--The historic heart of St. Maarten is poised for a transformation. During a recent town hall meeting hosted by Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication (TEATT) Grisha Heyliger-Marten last Friday, designer Eric van Putten unveiled the Minister's researched vision for revitalizing Philipsburg. The plan, grounded in extensive consultations with residents, merchants, students, and civic organizations, paints a picture of a town that is safer, more vibrant, culturally alive, and economically dynamic.Van Putten, a seasoned architectural designer and St. Maarten native, emphasized that the revitalization plan is not about immediate execution, but rather a comprehensive master plan for what Philipsburg can become.

His presentation underscored that his designs offer a framework, a collection of ideas based on local input and strategic planning, rather than awarding or executing contracts. This clarification came amid public interest and misconceptions about his role.The plan is being rolled out in phases. Phase One focused on extensive stakeholder engagement. Van Putten met with key groups including the Indian Merchants Association (IMA), residents and schools in the area, gathering diverse insights on Philipsburg's challenges, from lighting and safety to business viability and sanitation.

In Phase Two, Van Putten enlisted students from the Sundial School to collect data on Philipsburg’s infrastructure, documenting the layout of businesses, public spaces, and pedestrian areas. Their input is helping to form a data-driven map of current conditions, identifying exactly what needs attention.One major theme is lighting. Van Putten stressed that poor lighting makes Philipsburg feel unsafe after dark, particularly for women, the elderly, and tourists. A revitalized Philipsburg would feature better street lighting, illuminated crosswalks, and artistic light installations, all designed to make the town feel safer and more welcoming. He also pointed to the lack of visible police patrols as a problem, urging a return to regular foot patrols in and around Frontstreet, Backstreet, and key alleys.

Van Putten also proposes beautifying the town’s neglected spaces. He pointed to derelict buildings, including those around schools and heritage sites, that create eyesores for both locals and tourists. While many of these are privately owned, he suggested that government could explore partnerships or use existing funds to at least restore building facades. This, he believes, would significantly uplift the appearance of the town without overstepping property rights.Garbage management also featured prominently in his presentation. Van Putten shared photos taken on the same day showing overflowing bins and garbage bags left in alleys, calling the situation unacceptable.

He recommends fixed pickup times and increased enforcement to ensure cleanliness, as well as more visible public garbage bins and clear signage.A revitalized Philipsburg also includes improved public amenities: more benches, accessible public restrooms, public Wi-Fi, and better signage. He called for installing directional signs and interactive digital maps to help tourists navigate from cruise ships to shops, restaurants, and historical sites. He also proposes more greenery, smaller palm trees, flowering plants, and green pockets, to enhance the aesthetic and provide shade.Van Putten is especially passionate about cultural programming.

He proposed weekly events such as live music, art exhibitions, or children’s days, that would draw both locals and tourists to town. The plan even includes an artistic revitalization of overlooked monuments like the Clem LaBega Square and the introduction of smart lighting and commercial LED signage at key entry points to town.Van Putten also emphasized the importance of reconnecting with the town’s cultural soul, including installing art from local creators, showcasing Caribbean heritage, and creating public entertainment spaces like pop-up stages on the Boardwalk.He further highlighted the potential of the return of the Great Bay Hotel, with the Planet Hollywood brand reportedly on its way. He described the project as a critical step toward attracting more overnight tourists, which in turn would drive foot traffic, restaurant activity, and retail spending in town.

To support this, he also suggested extending the boardwalk all the way to the new hotel, connecting Philipsburg’s historical core with its future hospitality center.To ensure sustainability, the plan calls for appointing a City Manager tasked with overseeing daily operations, ensuring timely garbage collection, maintenance, and responding to community complaints. This person would not be ceremonial but an on-the-ground manager with authority and accountability. A maintenance plan for the revitalized capitol is also essential for long-term sustainability.