A grant of up to $2,314,295 to the state of massachusetts for the expansion of massachusetts veterans memorial cemetery at agawam

The National Cemetery Administration (NCA) awarded $2,314,295 to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts through its Executive Office of Veterans' Services under the Veterans Cemetery Grants Program (CFDA 64.203) on September 5, 2025. This project grant funds the expansion of the Massachusetts Veterans Memorial Cemetery at Agawam, with completion targeted for September 30, 2028. The funded improvements include the construction of 1,550 columbarium niches for cremains interment, along with associated landscaping and irrigation system enhancements. These infrastructure additions will expand burial capacity to serve approximately 360,000 veterans and eligible family members in the surrounding region.

The Veterans Cemetery Grants Program provides federal funding to states, territories, counties, and federally recognized tribal governments to establish, expand, and improve veterans' cemeteries. All funded projects must conform to VA standards and comply with domestic content requirements under the Build America, Buy America Act. The Agawam expansion represents a Priority Group 3 non-urgent expansion project that will increase memorial services and interment options for the veteran population within the Commonwealth's service area.

The cemetery at agawam serves more than 360,000 veterans and their eligible family members in the region. The grant will fund 1,550 columbarium niches, landscaping, and irrigation.