The Milwaukee VA Medical Center held a ribbon cutting Monday for its first ever parking garage.

It will provide 245 spaces for Veterans.

There's work planned very soon on another parking area for employees.

The $9.2 million garage is located at the main east entrance of the medical center, just off General Mitchell Boulevard and Warehouse Way.

"This is a big deal for us," said Dan Zomchek, Medical Center Director. "This really represents access to care in my mind. Access to care is not just about bringing health care services, but making those services accessible for our Veterans."

The medical center treats more than 64,000 Veterans a year.

This new garage will be open only to Veterans and visitors during normal business hours.

The center will also continue to offer free valet parking for Veterans.