The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has announced a historic investment of $4.8 billion for fiscal year 2026 aimed at modernizing and repairing health care facilities across the United States. This funding marks the largest single-year allocation for the Veterans Health Administration’s Non-Recurring Maintenance program in the agency’s history. The initiative seeks to address essential maintenance projects that extend beyond regular upkeep to ensure safe and effective patient care.
According to VA Secretary Doug Collins, this substantial investment emphasizes the commitment to prioritize veterans’ needs. He noted that enhancements to facilities and infrastructure are crucial for delivering improved health care services. The funds will primarily focus on critical updates and replacements necessary for ongoing operations.
$4.8 billion allocation details reveal that $2.8 billion will be directed towards repairing and upgrading outdated infrastructure systems in medical facilities. Additionally, $1.0 billion is earmarked for the maintenance and modernization of electronic health record systems, which includes preparation for future updates. Another $500 million will fund major building upgrades, such as elevators, electrical systems, and boiler plants, while a further $500 million is designated for modernizing medical centers to enhance current and future care capabilities. The VA plans to determine specific projects on a quarterly basis.
The department has already released its first-quarter project list, amounting to $468 million, which can be accessed on its official website.
Leadership Transition at the VA
In addition to the funding announcement, the VA revealed a significant change in leadership within the department. Chris Syrek, the Chief of Staff, is set to depart for a private sector opportunity, with his final day scheduled for February 13, 2026. Curt Cashour, currently the Assistant Secretary for Public and Intergovernmental Affairs, will take over the role.
Syrek has been a pivotal figure at the VA since taking on the chief of staff position on January 20, 2025. He played an integral role in Collins’ Senate confirmation process and the transition of leadership following the presidential election. Previously, he served as deputy chief of staff during the first Trump administration.
Collins praised Syrek’s contributions, highlighting his involvement in operational improvements and efforts to fulfill President Trump’s commitments to veterans. Under Syrek’s leadership, the VA has made considerable strides, including a 60% reduction in the backlog of veterans awaiting benefits since January 2025. The department also eliminated the backlog of veteran families waiting for health care and processed a record three million disability claims by September 30, 2025.
In fiscal year 2025, the VA opened 25 new health care clinics, provided veterans with over 1.9 million appointments outside of regular operating hours, and permanently housed 51,936 homeless veterans, marking the highest total in seven years.
Cashour, stepping into the chief of staff role, brings a wealth of experience to the position. He has previously served as press secretary and deputy assistant secretary for public affairs during the first Trump administration. Notably, he is also a veteran of the Iraq War and a recipient of the Bronze Star.
As the VA embarks on this significant investment for facility improvements, the leadership transition comes at a critical time, with the department poised to enhance its service to millions of veterans across the nation.
