WILLEMSTAD – Member of Parliament Sheldry Osepa (PNP) has formally questioned the Minister of Traffic, Transport and Urban Planning over what he describes as increasingly strict parking enforcement in key urban areas, warning that current policies risk undermining economic activity and accessibility in Curaçao’s city centers.
In a letter submitted to the minister, Osepa points to recent enforcement actions in areas such as Pietermaai, where vehicles parked along roadsides have been towed away. While he acknowledges that motorists have a responsibility to park legally and safely, he argues that enforcement is being carried out without sufficient consideration for where residents and visitors are expected to park—particularly in zones that have developed into vibrant social and tourism hubs.
Osepa highlights Pietermaai as a prime example of positive urban development, noting the concentration of restaurants, hotels and hospitality venues along major streets, including the corridor from Winston Papa Godett Street past Lamunchi and toward Avila Hotel. He also points to upcoming projects, such as the Pen Resort, which are expected to draw even more visitors to the area. According to the MP, businesses in these zones have received the required operating permits, yet parking capacity has not kept pace with growth.
He raises similar concerns about Otrobanda, where the opening of restaurants in the West-End area has revitalized the neighborhood but has also intensified parking shortages. Osepa notes that existing parking areas near bus terminals, Aqualectra, educational institutions and public offices are frequently full, forcing some visitors—particularly older residents—to park farther away and walk long distances.
The parliamentarian warns that while granting permits for restaurants and hospitality businesses is positive for employment and government revenue, inconsistent policy between ministries—approving new businesses on one hand while aggressively towing vehicles on the other—creates confusion and frustration for the public.
In his letter, Osepa poses several questions to the minister, including how parking policy is being managed in high-density areas such as Pietermaai and Otrobanda, whether a balance is being maintained between traffic safety and economic and social activity, and what procedures and costs apply when a vehicle is towed. He also asks whether Parliament is consulted on towing policy and whether the ministry coordinates with other departments when issuing permits, in order to prevent foreseeable parking problems.
Osepa concludes by calling for a clear and transparent approach that allows residents and visitors to understand what to expect when visiting Curaçao’s city centers, stressing that effective planning is essential to support both public safety and the island’s positive economic development.