Construction projects begin in officers’ dorms

  • Published
  • By Linda Frost
  • 71st Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
VANCE AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  The first of several construction projects to improve the quality of life for residents of the unaccompanied officers' quarters here is underway.

The $2,035,000 project will replace the existing two-pipe heating, ventilation and air conditioning system with a modern four-pipe system.

"The new mechanical system will allow residents more control of the temperature in their rooms, especially during the spring and fall months, when temperatures can fluctuate between very warm to cold in the space of one day," said Glenda Watkins, architect and energy manager for PAE Civil Engineering.

"The new system will also have both hot and chilled water available simultaneously, thus providing heating or cooling as the weather changes," she added.

The project will also replace the fan-coil units in the mechanical closets.

"This will require extensive trenching work near the UOQs, so residents should be aware of upcoming activity in the area," Watkins said.

The individual fan-coil units will be replaced in phases later this spring.

"No residence will be without heating or cooling for more than 10 hours while the changeover is made," said Watkins. "The contractor has also arranged for temporary heating and cooling back-up if needed."

During the construction period, safety is paramount while maintaining access to the dorms.

Every effort will be made to inform residents regarding areas where exterior trenching for the new piping is occurring, Watkins said, as well as scheduled change-overs to the new mechanical equipment.

The project is scheduled for completion in August 2014.

Other projects planned to begin this spring are a complete roof replacement for the UOQs, replacement of the damaged stair treads and complete renovation of the laundry rooms.

Watkins said the new roofing installation will remove the old original roof and provide a new "cool" roof which is energy efficient as well as preventing roof leaks. The project to add new stair treads corrects safety issues, and the laundry rooms' renovation will add new flooring, paint and cabinets.

"As with any construction project, and especially with several projects ongoing at the same time, residents will hear noise during the day and encounter construction fences around key areas as the work progresses," said Watkins.

Lodging Management will keep residents up-to-date on construction activities. Should any resident have a concern or questions, they are asked to call the Lodging Office at 213-7358.