Site of VA clinic in Alpena chosen

The Department of Veterans Affairs has announced the site of the new veterans’ clinic in Alpena. The clinic will be built in the Alpena Harborside Mall.

The Harborside Mall is located next to the City of Alpena Small Boat Harbor, one block from downtown.

U.S. Sen, Debbie Stabenow stated in a press release that the location, at the corner of US-23 North and US-23 South will ease, the burden of veterans in Alpena and the surrounding area who regularly make long and often difficult trips to VA hospitals in other parts of the state to receive basic medical services.

“This downtown site is a victory for Alpena veterans and their famlies,” Stabenow said. “For too many of our veterans, long drives to clinics have prevented them access to the quality health care services they need. This clinic helps ensure our country keeps its promise to our veterans, who deserve nothing less than our unwavering support.”

Jeff Konczak is owner of Alpena Harborside LLC, the company that owns the Harborside Mall.

“We’re thrilled that this clinic will be coming to downtown Alpena,” Konczak said. “We want to thank Sen. Stabenow for her leadership and support over the years to secure this clinic.”

Stabenow has worked with many area veterans and community leaders, as well as the Alpena Regional Medical Center to gain approval for this facility. She also sent numerous letters and a petition that includeed over 1, 000 signatures urging the VA to increase access to veterans’ health care in the Alpena region, and introduced legislation directing the VA to create this clinic.