WASHINGTON – Veterans in the WhiteCity area are a major step closer to getting a world-class rehabilitation center and modernized clinics from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) under terms of a decision announced today by the Honorable R. James Nicholson, Secretary of Veterans Affairs.
The decision to modernize VA’s Southern Oregon Rehabilitation Center and Clinics in WhiteCity was a milestone in the ongoing review of the facility to match projected demand for health services with programs and facilities.
"With new, state-of-the-art facilities at White City, Oregon veterans will have world-class medical care well into the 21st century,” said Nicholson. The VA secretary was joined at the announcement by Rep. Greg Walden.
The WhiteCity facility is the only free-standing rehabilitation center in VA’s national system. Nearly 400 veterans currently receive inpatient services to combat substance abuse, mental illness and homelessness. WhiteCity also provides primary care and vocational rehabilitation for veterans.
Nicholson said this project will now be integrated into his nationwide plan so that a timetable and budget can be established, followed by congressional authorization and funding. He pledged that VA will continue to work with the community as the replacement process goes forward.
The new construction on the campus will be designed to provide a buffer zone between facilities and other parcels of land intended for recreational use by patients.
The WhiteCity facility is located on 145 acres and includes 59 buildings, many of which were built more than half a century ago. Under Nicholson’s decision, several new buildings will be built, including new domiciliaries for veterans, and others renovated. The plan will also provide for the possibility of re-use or redevelopment on the site.
The general development plans will now be refined by the Veterans Integrated Service Network in Vancouver, Wash., which serves the region that includes WhiteCity. Input from veterans and the local community will be incorporated.
