U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy announced Tuesday that a $7.2 million dollar federal grant has been awarded for the establishment of the new Southwest Louisiana Veterans Cemetery in Jennings. 

“Southwest Louisiana will finally see the construction of a veterans cemetery thanks to this grant,” Cassidy said.

“Right now, the only option for veterans is the cemetery in Leesville, more than 80 miles away. I’m glad Louisiana families will finally have a place closer to home where we can honor these American heroes.”

The grant will fund the construction of a main entrance, an administration building, a maintenance facility, roads, an assembly area, a committal shelter, 1,212 pre-placed crypts, 185 cremains gravesites, 380 columbarium niches, memorial walk, landscaping and supporting infrastructure.

The project will develop approximately 12.6 acres and serve approximately 37,600 Louisiana veterans and their eligible family members.