Is this even possible? Lawmakers weigh cut in medical care for vets to pay for Denver boondoggle project

Early this spring, VA officials asked for another $830 million to finish the hospital — but pared that to $625 million after lawmakers were aghast at the number. The 184-bed medical center in Aurora, Colo., now estimated to cost taxpayers $1.7 billion, three times its original budget, is the most expensive project in VA history.

Several lawmakers are concerned that "across the board cuts will not be palatable" to appropriators or House and Senate leaders, who are being briefed this week on VA's proposal, said a congressional aide familiar with members' thinking.

After a conference call with Deputy Secretary Sloan Gibson and several meetings in recent days, a bipartisan consensus has emerged in Colorado's House and Senate delegation, as well as among lawmakers on the committees that oversee veterans' issues, according to the aide and another one familiar with the discussions.
http://www.stripes.com/news/veterans/lawmakers-weigh-cut-in-medical-care-for-vets-to-pay-for-denver-boondoggle-project-1.351756