Maintenance work on the fishing pier at Playa Pabou is continuing. The goal is to create a safe, sustainable, and suitable infrastructure for fishermen and other users of the sea on Bonaire.
While removing the old wooden and metal parts, it became apparent that the tops of the pilings were more damaged than expected. Following a technical assessment, it was decided not to completely replace the underwater pilings. Instead, they will be reinforced with a metal tube (known as a “sleeve”) that is placed around the existing pilings and filled with concrete. This will strengthen the pilings and extend the pier’s lifespan.
A key advantage of this solution is that the piles could remain underwater. This eliminated the need for additional work on the seabed. This helps minimize damage to the underwater ecosystem and protects corals and other marine life.
New wooden planks will be installed on the upper section of the pier in the coming days. These planks are specifically designed for use in the sea and are highly resistant to saltwater. As a result, the pier will require less maintenance in the future. Due to the additional work and the lead time for special materials, the completion of the pier has been postponed to the end of 2026.
In addition to the construction work, a plan is also being developed for the use and management of the fishing pier. This plan will include clear guidelines regarding the use of the pier, with special attention given to fishermen. The goal is to ensure the pier is practical and suitable for everyone who uses it.
The maintenance of the fishing pier at Playa Pabou is a collaboration between the Public Entity of Bonaire, Rijkswaterstaat, STINAPA, and the Harbor Master. Through this work, the organizations involved are investing in a strong and safe pier that will last for many years to come and remain important to the fishermen and the community of Bonaire.
