WAUPACA, Wis. — The state's oldest veteran cemetery is in the process of getting some much needed upgrades.

With a recent $3 million dollar grant, improvements are underway.

The Central Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery is the final resting place for hundreds of Wisconsin veterans. As the oldest state cemetery in the state, new and improved additions and upgrades are needed.

“Everything that we do in terms of construction has to benefit the veteran and their families. They are our core customers,” cemetery director, Christopher Foster said.

Christopher Foster is looking forward to making the cemetery a better place for those who served.

“We have been here since 1888. We are the oldest of the three state cemeteries in Wisconsin, and we are the oldest active state cemetery in the state with the Wood National Cemetery being closed to first internments,” Foster said.

With the first phase of construction in 2015, it’s now time for the next steps. Those projects include, widening the roads, adding irrigation, a flag center, a four season committal shelter and adding in ground crypts.

“We want to be able to offer direct burial benefits that save the veterans and their families money, and provide a better more honor, dignified, respectful service to the veteran and their family,” Foster said.

With 20 acres being taken care of now, and another 77 waiting to be used, Foster said this place will be active for another 100 years to come​.