A long-sought veterans cemetery in North Alabama is moving forward after federal approval of a $13.5 million grant to support construction of a new Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs (ADVA) facility in Madison County.
The authorization, secured through the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ National Cemetery Administration, addresses a long-standing gap in burial access for veterans in the region, where tens of thousands currently live outside the service radius of an existing state or national veterans cemetery.
North Alabama is home to more than 42,700 veterans who reside beyond 75 miles of an existing VA cemetery. State officials estimate the new facility will accommodate more than 10,000 interments over the next decade and serve the region for approximately 200 years.
U.S. Rep. Dale Strong, who worked with ADVA and Gov. Kay Ivey to support the state’s federal grant application, said the project fulfills a promise to North Alabama’s veteran community.
“When the nation called, our veterans answered, and this new state VA cemetery in North Alabama will make good on our promise to honor their service forever,” said Representative Dale Strong. “For too long, families in North Alabama have had to travel long distances to lay their loved ones to rest. This investment delivers meaningful access, dignity, and peace of mind for those who have sacrificed so much for our country.”
Strong emphasized that the region’s high veteran population underscored the urgency of the request.
“This will be a lasting place of respect and remembrance close to home,” Strong continued. “I was proud to advocate for this investment to ensure North Alabama’s veterans and their families have access to a dignified final resting place that reflects the deep gratitude our community holds for their service and sacrifice. This is about keeping our promise – not just in words, but in action.”
Veteran advocates who have pushed for a North Alabama cemetery for years welcomed the approval as a breakthrough moment.
“On behalf of all my fellow Northern Alabama shipmates and veterans, this is the culmination of efforts we questioned would ever be enough to make this happen, despite the demographic justification,” said retired Navy Captain Roger Watkins. “I can’t adequately express my joy and thanks to Congressman Strong and his staff for their effort to make this happen. For the tens of thousands of Northern Alabama veterans, thank you!”
ADVA Commissioner Jeffrey Newton said the grant reflects years of coordination between state and federal partners as Alabama’s veteran population continues to grow.
“For years, we have recognized the need for a second state veterans cemetery to properly honor the men and women who answered our nation’s call. This investment brings us one step closer to fulfilling that commitment. We are deeply grateful for the federal support, led by Congressman Strong, and for the continued dedication of our state and local partners who helped make this milestone possible,” said Commissioner Newton, in part.
Construction on the cemetery is expected to begin no later than late summer 2026. The site will be located east of Huntsville on Maysville Road NE and will include ground crypts, traditional graves, columbarium niches, and a scatter garden, along with a committal shelter and administrative building. Planned expansions are intended to ensure the cemetery serves Alabama veterans for generations.
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