Coast Lines 9/26

WASHINGTON

Panetta announces cemetery funding

Rep. Jimmy Panetta announced Wednesday that the California Central Coast Veterans Cemetery was awarded a federal grant totaling more than $6.4 million $6,417,059 from the Department of Veterans Affairs National Cemetery Administration. The grant will be used for the expansion of the cemetery.

"Local leaders, community members, and veterans have worked long and hard for the Central Coast Veterans Cemetery, said Panetta in a prepared release. "This federal investment adds to that ongoing effort by helping the cemetery meet the goals for its master plan."

This grant will fund the construction of 1,842 pre-placed crypts, 1,039 in-ground cremains gravesites, 80 memorial wall plaques, roadway, landscaping, and supporting infrastructure. The project will develop 5.6 acres, enabling the cemetery to provide continued service for approximately 84,400 Veterans and their eligible family members.