After years of reconstruction, delays, and public anticipation, St. Jude’s Hospital — one of the most critical healthcare facilities in southern Saint Lucia — is finally nearing completion. The long-awaited project, now entering its final stage, represents a significant milestone in the island’s commitment to modernizing its health infrastructure and improving patient care.The redevelopment, managed by Rayneau Construction under the leadership of Rayneau Gajadhar, has made visible strides in recent months. Despite a seven-week delay earlier in the year, Gajadhar confirmed that a clear plan has been established to finalize the project. “We’re now 98.5 percent complete,” he said, noting that the remaining work involves final installations and quality assurance. “There’s always something to refine — that’s the nature of construction.”
Gajadhar emphasized that his team will remain on-site for at least three months after handover to ensure a smooth transition from the temporary facility at the George Odlum Stadium to the new, purpose-built hospital. This support phase will help staff adapt to the upgraded systems and ensure that all departments operate efficiently from day one.
Recent images shared by the contractor show impressive progress inside the hospital, including a state-of-the-art kitchen that Gajadhar described as “better equipped than most hotels.” The new facility promises to deliver not only improved medical services but also enhanced comfort and functionality for staff and patients alike.
The journey toward completing St. Jude’s Hospital has been a long and often turbulent one, marked by several phases of reconstruction and shifts in design direction. Yet, despite the challenges, the project now stands as a symbol of resilience and renewed hope for the people of Vieux Fort and neighboring communities who have waited more than a decade for its reopening.
Once final installations and safety checks are completed, preparations will begin for the official transition of medical personnel and patients to the new site. With its completion on the horizon, St. Jude’s Hospital is poised to usher in a new chapter for healthcare in Saint Lucia — one built on persistence, progress, and promise.