Airmen’s dormitory undergoes remodel

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Austin M. Thomas
  • 5 BW Public Affairs
Most Airmen spend their first few years living in base dormitories, and with living standards constantly changing, facilities are often improved or remodeled.

Dorm 276 at Minot Air Force Base, N.D. has undergone remodeling since July 2016 and is scheduled for completion in July 2017. The goal of the project is to improve the living standards of the Airmen living in dormitories.

“When the living standards go up, the dorms need to be replaced or, in this case, completely remodeled,” said Ted Cadell, 5th Civil Engineer Squadron project manager.

The building will have new electrical components, insulation, carpet, fixtures, outlets and a fire sprinkler system, added Cadell.

“The dorm was demoed from wall-to-wall,” said Cadell. “This will basically be a new dormitory once the remodel is done.”

A common area will be added for every two to three dorms, and will include a small kitchen with a fridge, stovetop and sink.

With the improvements taking up more space, the dorms maximum capacity will be 55 rather than the previous 70.

Cadell also mentioned another new aspect of the remodel; each dorm’s room will have individual thermostat control.

“Dorm 276 was the last dorm with no air conditioning,” said Timothy Knickerbocker, Minot Air Force Base Homes housing manager. “With a new heating, ventilation and air conditioning system, it will have effective cooling and heating.”

As living standards change, dorms are torn down, built or improved upon, said Knickerbocker. As of right now, no new dorms are scheduled for building, but Dorm 331 and 330 are next for remodeling.

The environment of a recently remodeled dorm provides Airmen with a good place to pursue opportunities, added Knickerbocker.