Three new veterans homes move forward
Veterans Notes
By David A Anderson
Wadena County Veteran Service Officer
In late March, MDVA learned that federal funding would be provided to build three new State Veterans Homes projects to be located in Bemidji, Montevideo and Preston. The U. S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) announced its State Home Construction Grants FY 2021 Conditional Approvals. This investment will allow MDVA to expand State Veterans Homes into three new communities to serve elderly Veterans living in all corners on the state.
MDVA has pursued federal funding for these important projects since 2018 when the Minnesota Legislature allocated $33 million toward the cost of the projects. The funding plan is a combination of federal-granted (65 percent), state-bonded and community-provided monies (35 percent).
The Minnesota Legislature’s continued support of Veterans was key to the success of these projects. The approval of federal funds allows the construction process to proceed. The planning and design process is nearly complete and with this exciting news, final touches can be made.
The three new Minnesota Veterans Homes projects are slated to receive more than $80 million in Federal VA funds. By June 30, MDVA will complete the Federal VA grant application process to obtain the funds.
MDVA leaders have worked closely with local elected officials and Veterans’ stakeholders for years on the planning for the new Veterans Homes. The communities of Bemidji, Montevideo and Preston have been very engaged in the process, donating land for the building sites and raising additional funds to support amenities for their new Homes.
In Bemidji, the proposed facility reflects a North Woods cabin design for both the public spaces as well as the 72 residential units that are split into two sections, avoiding long institutional-feeling hallways. The project cost is estimated at $41.5 million and a total of 105 FTEs will be needed to operate the facility.
The Montevideo facility blends into the local prairie style environment with 72 residential units as well as a large community meeting room. The project cost is estimated at $48 million and a total of 105 FTEs will be needed to operate the facility.
In Preston, the facility will enjoy fantastic views from its hilltop location that includes 54 residential units. The project cost is estimated at $32.2 million and a total of 79 FTEs will be needed to operate the facility.
Construction could begin as early as early fall 2021 with an anticipated 18-month construction schedule. [Source MDVA Website 04/14/2021]
You can contact your local VSO at (218) 631-7617 or by email at david.anderson@co.wadena.mn.us.
