Bay pines va implements security updates at main campus and lchcc | va bay pines health care | veterans affairs

BAY PINES , FL — Significant security enhancements are underway at Bay Pines VA Healthcare System’s C.W.Y campus and at the Lee County Healthcare Center (LCHCC). This project is taking place

because in 2017, the healthcare system underwent a Physical Security Inspection which was part of a routine inspection conducted by the VA Sunshine Healthcare Network (VISN 8). As a result

of those findings, Bay Pines VA began exploring ways to update security measures at the main campus, including the Bay Pines National Cemetery, and the VBA Regional Office, and the LCHCC.

The security project alleviates these security risks and greatly improves facility-wide security. “Our Veterans have already given so much to the nation so, as we thank them through the

delivery of high-quality health care, it is imperative we ensure they’re in an environment that is safe,” said Bay Pines VA Director/CEO Paul M. Russo. “Providing a secure environment will

only build upon the trust Veterans place in us and we’re excited to provide a heightened peace of mind to all who frequent our facilities.” The security project at both locations will

include periods of work when access and egress will be difficult and inhibited. For the LCHCC, the project’s expected completion date is late December 2023. The construction will occur in

five phases and includes the installation of improved lighting and camera monitoring around the perimeter of the property; adding gates to both entrances; expanding the entrance to the

loading dock with a single entry and exit gate; and modification of the mailroom. During the period of construction, one entrance (either the entrance off Diplomat Parkway or entrance off

Corbett Road) will be closed at a time and traffic will be re-routed to the open entrance. As a result, we do expect increased road traffic. For the C.W.Y campus, the construction will occur

in three phases and includes the installation of a perimeter fence along Bay Pines Boulevard, the portion of the property that borders the Bay Pines National Cemetery, and the portion that

borders the preserve; addition of automatic gates at the west entrance; the addition of a police officer pull off and turnaround lane at the west entrance; adding an east-bound turning lane

at the east entrance; and additional video monitoring and camera replacements across the campus. The project on the C.W.Y campus will require portions of the west entrance and the east

entrance to be closed while they’re under construction. The anticipated start date of closures at the west entrance is July 2023. The anticipated start date of closures at the east entrance

is October 2023. Construction is anticipated to be completed by early 2024. CONSTRUCTION ON THE C.W.Y CAMPUS WILL HAVE A SIGNIFICANT IMPACT ON THE AMOUNT OF TIME IT TAKES TO ENTER AND EXIT

THE PROPERTY. IT IS MOST IMPORTANT THAT WHEN COMING FOR SERVICES, VETERANS ALLOW EXTRA TIME TO GET TO THEIR APPOINTMENTS. The wellbeing of Veterans, their loved ones and our staff remains

our utmost priority and we appreciate their patience as we work to ensure their continued safety.