Veterans to get more space with upgrade of area home

An ongoing $6 million construction project at the Missouri Veterans Home will mean updated decor and additional space for residents.

New paint, flooring and ceilings will be accompanied by a new dining/activities space and enlarged kitchen, said administrator Jan Rau.

The project also includes a new heating and air-conditioning system and additional storage and meeting space. A new solarium will be added to the current dining room.

"The residents will have an updated environment and the new colors will enliven the place," Rau said. "I feel good about these changes."

The construction work will mean some temporary inconveniences for residents and employees, however.

All of the residents and their possessions will be moved at some point in the project to allow for renovations to each resident wing. The facility has cut back on the number of residents for now to make room for those relocations.

The kitchen renovation, which is expected to take 75 days, will mean moving in a mobile trailer for cooking. Meals will be served with plastic utensils, plates and cups to minimize dish washing.

The dining room will be closed, which means activities such as bingo will be held in hallways.

"We will have to adjust the way we work," said Rau.

The biggest change will be the addition of a dining room and kitchen to the special care unit. That unit does not currently have dining facilities, which limits group activities.

The project is funded by state and federal grants with Kiefner Brothers Construction heading up the work. Rau said it should take around 18 months to complete.

At the completion, the facility plans to hold an open house for the community.

cmiller@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 128