Lane County is turning an old VA clinic into a center for respite and recovery

County officials said the Lane Count Respite and Recovery Center will be a place for the homeless to go if they test positive for the virus or are waiting for test results and don't need to be in the hospital.

A new building -- for those who do not have a place to go recover from covid-19..

Or if they're waiting for test results.

Kezi nine news reporter connor mccarthy is live outside the old veterans administration building on river avenune with when they will starting taking people in.

Matt and renee-- the county approved the 1 point 8 million dollar purchase of the 18- thousand square foot building last week.

County officials say they will open this building up in phases to those who can't recover or wait for covid-19 results in their home.

Officials also say the building will be able to take in 100 people.

The county purchased this building because the hospital-style set up on the inside is an ideal layout for people to live safely as they recover.

The u.s. army corp of engineers toured the building monday and recomended changes so the the shleter can be approved by fema.

Karen gafney--- who works for the county--says she is proud to see her community respond in positive way.

There's much to be done to respond to a pandemic.

It's huge and we need everyone's help.

So this building is key part of our response and our community partners are also stepping up in so many ways to make sure we meet everyones needs in this emergency people will stay as long as they need to either recover from the virus or learn about their test results.

Those who tested positive will have to be symptom free for 72 hours before being released.

Matt and renee-- this area of eugene is no stranger to being in the headlines.

Last semptember-- polce say a man was axed here on the v-a property barely surviving.

Now the county will turn this building into a place of respite and recovery.

Reporting live in eugene connor mccarthy kezi