U.S. Rep. Zach Wamp, R-Chattanooga, seems to be a step closer to achieving his goal of expanding the Chattanooga National Cemetery, as a news conference today confirmed that both federal and local officials are on board with him.

“As long as the city of Chattanooga is here, we’ll have the Chattanooga National Cemetery,” pledged William F. Tuerk, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs undersecretary for memorial affairs.

Rep. Wamp had invited Mr. Tuerk, along with Chattanooga Mayor Ron Littlefield and Cemetery Director Paul Martin, to survey potential sites for expansion at the south end of the cemetery between Polk and Main streets. Though the site still has enough undeveloped space to last through at least 2046, the officials said, long-term planning should start now.

A bill Rep. Wamp recently helped pass mandates Mr. Tuerk’s department begin studying the issue, and Mr. Littlefield said the city will help in any way possible.

“No one should be alarmed, because we aren’t moving on anyone’s property right now,” Mr. Littlefield said, explaining that any acquisitions likely would occur on a voluntary basis, such as after condemnation, sale or a resident’s death.

For complete coverage, see tomorrow’s Chattanooga Times Free Press.