Calls for a master plan have been ongoing for decades. The VA property has been something of a political football for years, with many interest groups weighing in with various competing plans.
Over the years, there have been talks of NFL football stadiums, shopping malls, national parks, more housing for veterans, public golf courses, parks and more. Portions of the property have been leased out to private parties (Brentwood School, Wadsworth Theater, City of Los Angeles Recreation and Parks Department, etc.).
Some veterans have objected to any use of the property that doesn’t directly benefit veterans. The original deed giving the property to the federal government describes a “permanent home for disabled volunteer soldiers.†Part of The Veterans Administration recently posted to its website its draft version of a “master plan†for the 388-acre VA property.
Plans include a new medical tower, a columbarium (for cremated remains), expansion of research and administrative facilities and some new housing for homeless veterans (inside existing buildings that will be rehabilitated).
The public has until February 19 to post remarks that will become part of the federal register. To view the draft master plan and make comments, go to: http://www.losangeles.va.gov/.
Comments from the public will be taken into consideration as plans for the property are finalized. the property was deeded over to the State of California, which recently opened a retirement home for veterans.
In 2008, U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein inserted language into an appropriations bill that forbade the federal government from selling or further leasing the property to outside interests.
Since that time, VA officials have stated they are happy to get back to their primary mission, which is providing health care for veterans.
Written comments may be submitted through www.regulations.gov; or by mail or hand-delivery to Director, Regulations Management (02REG), Department of Veterans Affairs, 810 Vermont Avenue, NW, Room 1068, Washington, DC 20420; or by fax to (202) 273-9026.
Comments should indicate that they are submitted in response to “Notice: Draft Master Plan.â€
