WASHINGTON - Today, Congressmen Kevin McCarthy (R-Bakersfield) and Jim Costa (D-Bakersfield) announced a step forward for the Bakersfield National Cemetery as the Department of Veterans Affairs awarded a construction contract for Phase 1A portion of the new Bakersfield National Cemetery in Arvin, CA.

“On December 7th, we gathered together to break ground at the long-awaited Bakersfield National Cemetery, and based on the number of veterans and neighbors in attendance, it was apparent why Bakersfield was selected as a location – because we honor our fellow neighbors who served our country, and we will never forget those who walked, wore the uniform, and sacrificed to make sure we live in a free nation,” said McCarthy.  “Today’s announcement on the award of the first phase of the construction contract continues the positive steps forward towards completing the cemetery.” 

“I’m very happy to hear that the Department of Veterans Affairs allocated these funds to build the cemetery,” said Costa.  “We owe our Valley veterans a debt of gratitude for their sacrifice, whether that is a hospital, home loans, or a dignified final resting place.  I look forward to seeing this project completed.”

Phase 1 of the Bakersfield National Cemetery is scheduled for completion in the fall 2009. This phase of the project is a 10 acre development that will provide an estimated two years of burial services, and will enable the VA to start burial operations while the remainder of Phase 1 is under construction. The contract for Phase 1 was awarded to Combined Effort, Inc., from Jamestown, California, in the amount of $2.8 million.

###