VA to Continue Next Phase of Sarasota National Cemetary

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) awarded a $15,924,000 contract to Kadell Industries - C & C Contractors to begin the next phase of development at the Sarasota, Fla., National Cemetery, a VA release said.

"Veterans in the Sarasota area have earned the right to burial in a national shrine," said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. "We are committed to building a beautiful cemetery that will provide a final resting place and lasting tribute to their service and sacrifice."

According to the VA, this phase of construction will include approximately 11,500 pre-placed crypts; 9,000 in-ground sites for cremated remains; a columbarium with 7,000 niches; an administration and public information complex with an electronic gravesite locator and public restrooms; a maintenance facility; entrance and flag assembly areas; a memorial wall; and two committal shelters for funeral services.  Other infrastructure elements include roadways, landscaping, environmental preservation, utilities and an irrigation system.

The 50-acre development is part of the 295-acre cemetery in Sarasota County
located along State Route 72 west of Interstate 75, the release said.  Burials began in January 2009 in a 15-acre section, which includes one committal shelter and four burial sections.  The cemetery will provide a no-cost burial option for nearly 400,000 Veterans and family members living in southwestern Florida, the release said.