The James A. Haley Veteran's Hospital (JAHVH) Community-Based Outpatient Clinic has officially opened its doors in Lakeland, Florida. VHB’s integrated team of landscape architects, civil engineers, and planners played a pivotal role in creating a healthcare environment that considers the needs of patients, their support teams, the environment, and the larger community.
The landmark new 132,260-sf, two-story clinic consolidates and expands existing healthcare services in the region and is expected to serve more than 23,000 Veterans. Strategically located near the Lakeland Linder International Airport, this new facility be a cornerstone of Veteran healthcare in Central Florida.
“Our goal was to design a space that not only complements the clinic's architecture but also offers a peaceful retreat for Veterans and their families,” explained Ivy Clinton, PLA, ASLA, ENV SP, Gulf Coast Design Studio Lead. “The landscape reflects the resilience and strength of our Veterans, using Florida native plants that are both resilient and beautiful.”
Among the thoughtfully designed outdoor spaces is the Flag Plaza, a place of honor for Veterans at the main entry and drop-off to the facility. Additional exterior improvements include plentiful seating areas, a healing garden, and a rehabilitation courtyard connected to the indoor Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation Clinic.
VHB provided preliminary site planning, entitlements, FEMA floodplain map changes, and environmental surveys of wetlands and endangered species, including preserving an off-site Bald Eagle nest. Additional services included stormwater management, utility services, transportation planning for connectivity, and landscape architectural design for the clinic grounds.
VHB successfully navigated a unique project environment. Designing infrastructure on phosphatic clay soils was challenging, so VHB developed a solution that utilized lightweight pavement materials and specialized utility structures. Stormwater management was a focus area that required detailed floodplain management and treatment criteria to mitigate flooding risks and protect water quality.
The ribbon-cutting event culminated in celebrating the years-long effort of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to bring a state-of-the-art clinic facility to Lakeland. In a packed tent, the Deputy Director of the JAHVH, David VanMeter, led the Ceremony, which included speakers from the Florida Department of Veterans Affairs (FDVA), General Services Administration (GSA), JAHVH, and Congressman Scott Franklin. The event also honored 99-year-old Army Veteran Frank Blish, who parachuted into Normandy on D-Day and was present at the event.
The project is a collaboration led by developer The Molasky Group of Companies, project architect Gresham Smith, and design-build contractor The Korte Company.
Learn more about VHB’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge Healthcare Facilities and impactful Landscape Architecture services.
