Health Department's Plan to Rebuild Morris De Castro Clinic Gets Key Approval

While the plan receives praise for its design, concerns remain about the clinic’s location amid broader development plans for Cruz Bay

The V.I. Department of Health has secured a key approval from the Historic Preservation Committee which will advance efforts to replace the Morris de Castro Clinic in Cruz Bay, St. John.‌ “The Morris De Castro clinic has been a vital part of our department's mission, serving as a crucial resource for the community in both public health and emergency response capabilities or capacities,” said Department of Health Commissioner Justa Encarnacion, during Tuesday’s meeting. “Maintaining the clinic's presence in its current location is crucial to ensuring that the people of Virgin Islands have access to their care as they need, especially during times of crisis.”

Ms. Encarnacion vowed that the reconstruction project would proceed in a manner that “reflects and preserves the clinic's cultural heritage while modernizing its facilities to better serve our community,” a sentiment echoed by project architects.

Gilbert Laban and Jerry Traino, who presented on behalf of Springline Architects, walked the committee through what the project would entail. The rebuilt clinic would be a three-story structure, with 14 parking spaces instead of the current five. The clinic’s primary entrance would be along Henry Samuel Street, Mr. Laban said, with additional pedestrian access from other points.