Washington Governor Bob Ferguson has formally requested $11 million from the state Legislature to fund the design and preconstruction of a new veterans home in Spokane. This facility, which aims to accommodate 120 beds, is intended to replace the existing veterans home, deemed too small and outdated for modern needs. If the funding is approved in the upcoming legislative session, it will mark a significant step forward in enhancing services for local veterans.
The Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs recently acquired a 41.5-acre site west of the Dwight Merkel Sports Complex for $7 million. This purchase, financed through previously allocated state funds, sets the stage for the new facility. The design proposal indicates that the new veterans home will feature private rooms, communal living areas, expanded outdoor spaces, and a dedicated memory care unit tailored for veterans.
Current Facility Challenges
The existing veterans home in Spokane, located at 222 E. Fifth Ave., is the smallest of the four facilities operated by the Washington State Department of Veterans Affairs. Currently, it provides nursing care for approximately 98 resident veterans. Governor Ferguson toured the facility in March and emphasized the need for improvements. He stated, “It is needed for folks who served our country to have a facility that matches their contributions to our state and country. We should match that with a facility that is appropriate.”
During an October 30, 2025 hearing of the Joint Committee on Veterans’ and Military Affairs, David Puente, director of the Department of Veterans Affairs, highlighted the limitations of the current facility, which has been operational since the 1970s. Puente remarked that the existing site is merely 1.75 acres and likened it to “a parking lot.” He noted that the design lacks adequate outdoor space, stating, “There really is no outdoor space for veterans to be able to walk and enjoy the outside.”
The layout of the current home features double rooms separated by curtain dividers, creating a clinical atmosphere rather than a homelike setting. Puente emphasized the importance of a more accommodating design for veterans.
Future Facility Benefits
The newly purchased land offers several key advantages. Its proximity to the Mann-Grandstaff VA Medical Center will reduce transportation costs and improve access to medical care for residents. Puente explained that the location will enhance community engagement, allowing veterans to connect with local service organizations and participate in community activities.
Plans for the new facility will adopt the agency’s “small house model” design, which promotes a more residential atmosphere. The total projected cost for the home is $162 million, with the federal government expected to cover approximately 65% or $97 million of the expenses. Puente mentioned that securing full funding and commencing construction could take several years.
Governor Ferguson’s proposal underscores a commitment to improving the quality of life for veterans in Spokane. If approved, the new facility will not only address the shortcomings of the current home but also provide a supportive environment that honors the service of those who have defended the nation.
