Development

CZM Pauses BOC Approval To Demolish, Reconstruct Swan Annex Over Relocation Concerns for Local Business

The Coastal Zone Management Committee for St. Thomas has delayed its decision on granting approval for the demolition and reconstruction of the ‘Swan Annex’ detention facility, citing unresolved issues surrounding the relocation of a longstanding woodworking business currently occupying part of the site. After hurricanes Irma and Maria left the 78-bed facility beyond repair in 2017, other facilities in the territory had to be pressed into service to accommodate those held in detention. Overcrowding is an issue, explained Peter Abrahams, BOC's Assistant Director of Support Services. Having to house detainees at the John Bell Correctional Facility on St. Croix and transport them back and forth to St. Thomas for court is also an issue. “The situation represents not only a risk for BOC staff, but it also puts undue hardship on detainees, their families, attorneys representing them,” said Mr. Abrahams. Approximately 145 individuals have even been sent to facilities on the mainland due to t...