Dayton VA project could help prepare future national history center

The former clubhouse building at the Dayton VA campus is one of two buildings to be renovated for a future National VA History Center. BARRIE BARBER/STAFF

The former clubhouse building at the Dayton VA campus is one of two buildings to be renovated for a future National VA History Center. BARRIE BARBER/STAFF

The Dayton VA Medical Center will renovate a warehouse on the sprawling campus to house more items and to clear space for a future National VA History Center.

A contract was expected to be awarded this fall. Work to upgrade climate controls and loading dock spaces, among other renovations, would be completed in 2018, according to Philip Kirk, Dayton VA chief engineer.

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“The biggest thing is, it gives us more flexibility,” he said. A project cost estimate was not released.

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The National VA History Center, which would need private fund raising to be completed in future years, would be comprised of a former national headquarters building and an old clubhouse, both of which stand vacant today. The project could cost between $20 million to $25 million, the VA has estimated. Renovation work has started on the old headquarters site.

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The renovated warehouse would remove items out of the clubhouse and other spots at the Dayton VA for space needed in other buildings, Kirk said.

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