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New Fitness Center steadily progressing

  • Published
  • By Scott King
  • 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  Construction of the new Fairchild Fitness Center started in September 2010 and has been steadily coming to life ever since. It is scheduled to be completed and open for patrons in early 2012.

The $19.7 million project was necessary because the current fitness center was originally constructed as an unheated, wood warehouse in 1943, it wastes energy and is very costly to maintain. The General Contractor overseeing the project is Lydig Construction out of Spokane.

Among other amenities, the new fitness center will house an aquatics center, basketball and racquetball courts, weight and cardio rooms, an area for group exercise, the Health & Wellness Center and a 1/8 mile indoor running track.

"The new facility is now 50 percent complete. Major elements of ongoing work include the exterior brick, roofing, the pool, interior finishes and electrical/mechanical systems," said Mike Harper, 92nd Civil Engineer Squadron construction manager. "We've had several major modifications to incorporate various features into the facility, however, the project is progressing well. Every day more and more pieces are coming together and people are starting to get a feel for how the final building will look."

When the new fitness center opens, patrons will notice the differences right off hand.
"I think that when it opens up, everyone from the military to retirees will thoroughly enjoy the new facility," said John Gahagan, 92nd Force Support Squadron Fitness Center manager. "It will be pretty state-of-the-art and aesthetically motivating. Its open bay design allows for improved workout efficiency and minimum transition to and from workout areas. In addition to that, it will incorporate daylight through windows and translucent wall panels, and is completely air conditioned - making for a more comfortable and open feel."

It should prove to be more user-friendly as well considering all fitness services,
including the HAWC, will be in one building for improved customer service. The new pool will be used for both recreational swimming as well as water survival training.

"With such a focus on physical training for the Air Force, this new facility couldn't come at a better time," Gahagan said. "We are more than ready to open its doors for business and look forward to assisting our patrons in any physical improvements they wish to pursue."