The newly constructed United States Consulate General in Mérida is set to commence operations by the end of this month or early May at the latest. The building, inaugurated in December 2024 by Yucatán governor Joaquín Díaz Mena and former U.S. ambassador Kenneth Lee Salazar, will feature a space named after Joan Andrews. Andrews is a renowned environmentalist and founder of Pronatura, A. C., an organization that is celebrating its 35th anniversary this year.
Justen A. Thomas, U.S. consul general and principal officer in Mérida, spoke about the significant investment made in the new consulate, which is located next to Plaza Harbor on Vía Montejo. He described the building as "massive and impressive," highlighting a central column of open air that extends to the ceiling. This feature is accentuated by a staircase surrounded by trees and plants, adding a touch of nature to the structure.
Thomas expressed his privilege as the consul to inaugurate the building and name its various spaces. He spoke highly of Andrews, describing her as not only an environmentalist but also a former diplomat representing the U.S. abroad. He was deeply impressed by her life story and announced that the central space of the building, which resembles a cenote filled with life, will be named Atrium Joan Andrews.
The Mérida U.S. Consulate, constructed on a three-hectare plot and covering six thousand square meters, includes offices, public services, covered parking, and 12 service counters for public use. The design of the building and its artistic installations reflect the local culture and environment, drawing inspiration from Mayan archaeological sites.
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