CAT5 Builders was contracted by The Nature Conservancy to design, engineer, and construct a 1,000 sq. ft. open‑air pavilion within their coral growth and research facility in Christiansted. This project plays a vital role in supporting coral restoration efforts on St. Croix, an initiative that aligns closely with our company’s values—especially as the owners of CAT5 Builders are avid scuba divers with a deep appreciation for the island’s marine ecosystems.
Before this structure was built, the coral growth tanks were protected only by plastic tarps and temporary tents, which offered inconsistent shading and limited environmental control. CAT5 Builders delivered a permanent, purpose‑built solution designed specifically to support coral health and research.
Our team provided full design and engineering services, creating a structure optimized for durability, airflow, and light filtration. The pavilion was then installed by CAT5 Builders, marking a first‑of‑its‑kind project for our company, as we typically specialize in enclosed buildings.
A key feature of the pavilion is its specialized roofing system made from Polygal, a high‑performance plastic material selected for its ability to simulate the natural light levels corals receive at approximately 30 feet underwater, despite the research tanks being only 12 inches deep. This precise light diffusion is essential for coral growth, resilience, and long‑term restoration success.
This project represents a meaningful collaboration between CAT5 Builders and The Nature Conservancy, supporting critical environmental work on St. Croix. We are proud to contribute our expertise to an initiative that protects the reefs we love and helps ensure a healthier marine future for the island.
Before this structure was built, the coral growth tanks were protected only by plastic tarps and temporary tents, which offered inconsistent shading and limited environmental control. CAT5 Builders delivered a permanent, purpose‑built solution designed specifically to support coral health and research.
Our team provided full design and engineering services, creating a structure optimized for durability, airflow, and light filtration. The pavilion was then installed by CAT5 Builders, marking a first‑of‑its‑kind project for our company, as we typically specialize in enclosed buildings.
A key feature of the pavilion is its specialized roofing system made from Polygal, a high‑performance plastic material selected for its ability to simulate the natural light levels corals receive at approximately 30 feet underwater, despite the research tanks being only 12 inches deep. This precise light diffusion is essential for coral growth, resilience, and long‑term restoration success.
This project represents a meaningful collaboration between CAT5 Builders and The Nature Conservancy, supporting critical environmental work on St. Croix. We are proud to contribute our expertise to an initiative that protects the reefs we love and helps ensure a healthier marine future for the island.
Completed Coral Pavilion
