Veterans health services may take over former Iowa City post office space

IOWA CITY - Health services for military veterans could be provided in space formerly used by the U.S. Postal Service, federal officials said Friday.

Charlie Cook, acting regional public affairs officer with the General Services Administration, said in a Friday email that, pending final approval of funds, officials hope to expand services offered by the Iowa City VA Health Care System - including dental, physical therapy and occupational therapy - into the Iowa City Federal Building, 400 S. Clinton St.

The move will be part of GSA's master plan for expansion of the veterans' health system, with construction of administrative areas expected to be completed next spring. A final schedule will be made available once funds are secured.

Cook said the plan is to have Veterans Health Administration use the former postal service space, along with vacant second floor office areas, making for nearly 38,000 square feet and bringing the building to full occupancy.

'The Iowa City Federal Building is an important asset both in terms of providing quality space for federal operations and remaining a viable economic catalyst downtown,” Jason Klumb, GSA regional administrator, said in an email. 'I'm thrilled the Veterans Health Administration has chosen to use the facility to expand health care services in the community.”

The post office moved earlier this year out of the Federal Building and into a new home on southeast Iowa City's Pepperwood Plaza. USPS's lease at the Federal Building - which cost USPS $700,000 a year in rent - ended April 30 after the post office relocated to the smaller space at 925 Highway 6 E.

The Iowa City VA Health Care System has been serving veterans since 1952, with services available to more than 184,000 veterans across 50 counties in the Midwest.