DETROIT – The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Detroit District, awards a $7,450,890 contract to a Michigan firm for building improvements at the Battle Creek Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Battle Creek, Mich.
Beckering Advisor, Inc., Grand Rapids, Mich., will upgrade and expand Building 39, the inpatient mental health center. Work is slated to begin in October 2012 and wrap up in fall 2013.
“We are pleased to do our part to help ensure quality medical facilities for the care of Veterans – men and women who have sacrificed to serve our country and deserve nothing less,” said Lt. Col. Robert Ells, district engineer.
The Department of Veterans Affairs sought the Detroit District’s involvement in the Battle Creek project through the Army’s International and Interagency Services program, IIS. Under IIS, the two agencies can enter into a support agreement in which the VA funds a project, but the Corps provides services such as planning, design, construction, contract procurement and project management.
“This project will allow us to continue to offer excellent quality care for the Veterans we serve,” said Denise Deitzen, acting director of the Battle Creek VA Medical Center. “We look forward to having the expanded space for patient-centered care and to making their hospital stay more comfortable.”
The existing inpatient mental health facility will be expanded by 24,000 square feet. The expansion includes additional space for patient care, a new centralized reception area and more room for administrative and support staff.
For more details, please contact Lynn Rose, public affairs officer, 313-226-4680; or Bill Rito, project manager, 313-226-6788.
Release no. 081512-01