FORT SMITH -- The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs has selected a site for a new and expanded Community Outpatient Clinic in Fort Smith.
The proposed 45,900 -square-foot facility will be at 5500 Phoenix Ave., according to a news release sent out by the Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce on Thursday.
The clinic will further solidify the "burgeoning" medical and commercial corridor in the area, and more than double the space now offered by the Fort Smith VA Clinic at 1500 Dodson Ave.
"The decision comes after nearly two years of study and due diligence working closely with the Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce and community leaders," the release states.
Tim Allen, president and CEO of the Fort Smith Regional Chamber of Commerce, said in the release that this decision strengthens Fort Smith's "affinity for its veterans" and ensures that they will continue receiving the level of care they deserve.
"Discussions for this facility have been ongoing for more than two years, and we couldn't be more pleased that the Department of Veterans Affairs have chosen to not only keep this facility based in the community, but expand their presence here," Allen said.
About 15,000 veterans in Crawford, Sebastian and Franklin counties use the facility, according to the release. The number of veterans served by the VA in Fort Smith is expected to increase with a larger facility.
The new clinic will not only provide better access for veterans in the region, but also add about 100 new jobs. This includes doctors, nurses and support staff members.
"This is just one more tangible decision by an organization who understands the resources that Fort Smith has to offer," Allen said. "This facility will showcase leading-edge technology, skilled talent, a full scope of services and increase the already overall high level of medical care in the region."
State Desk on 12/29/2019