(NEPM- 11/8/2024) Federal, state and local officials gathered Thursday in Holyoke, Massachusetts, with union iron workers and military veterans to celebrate progress on the construction of a $480 million residential facility for veterans.
They held a “topping off” ceremony — hoisting the final steel beam over the heads of the crowd and up to the top of the building.
The beam was painted like the American flag in red, white and blue, and signed by union workers as well as Gov. Maura Healey and other dignitaries.
State Sen. John Velis of Westfield, who chairs the Joint Committee on Veterans and Federal Affairs, addressed the families of those who died during the outbreak.
“If it was not for your advocacy, if it was not for your stories, if it was not for your loved ones, I’m not sure we would be here today with this building,” Velis said.
When finished, the facility will include a memorial to the veterans who died during the pandemic.
The current building will be demolished after construction of the new one is completed.