June 99
Space
The Public Information Center is a combination of building and
sheltered plaza which serves two functions: Visitor/Funeral Orientation,
and Public Rest Rooms. The building may be occupied by cemetery staff
but would have an outside telephone reception area where cemetery
visitors, funeral directors, etc., could easily contact the administration
office to have their needs met or questions answered. There would be a
small space where appropriate veteran and cemetery related historical
items are displayed and desk or counter space for one or two cemetery
staff or volunteers to assist customers. The space must have computer
network capability with the Administration/ Maintenance Complex. The
counter must be able to be closed off when the space is not occupied.
Public Rest Rooms would be accessible from outside. Gravesite locator
information would be outside, but sheltered. Future plans include
installation of a computer-based gravesite locator system for public
interaction.
Visitor Parking
Visitors to the Public Information Center will park in an area adjacent to
the main entrance to the building, distinctly separate from the Cortege
Assembly Area.
Public Rest Rooms
The public rest rooms are part of the Public Information Center.
Building materials should coordinate with the other cemetery structures
and require little maintenance. The rest rooms should have durable, easy
to maintain interior finishes for heavy public use. Provide separate male
and female facilities. The capacity of the rest rooms, i.e., how many
persons are accommodated in a specified time period, is determined on
an individual project basis. Future expansion of this area is a possibility.
Administration / Maintenance Complex
The Administration/Maintenance Complex houses the offices, work
spaces and personnel area for cemetery support staff who are involved in
direct and indirect services to veterans, their families, and other cemetery
visitors. Visitor contact at the Administration/ Maintenance Complex is
minimal. When required, the building should have fire detection and
VA Design Guide -- National Cemetery Administration
Page 2 -17
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