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MacDill unveils new ADA housing

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Brandon Shapiro
  • 6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE,Fla., --  MacDill Air Force Base presented 10 qualifying families with newly constructed Americans with Disabilities Act homes on Dec. 18, 2013.

The newly constructed homes are specially designed to assist special needs families. The homes include unique features such as, sliding pocket doors, roll-in showers, widened hallways, removable cabinetry facings, and motion sensor bathroom lighting.

"Every military family is extremely important to us, and we have to make sure that each base resident has the appropriate level of care," said Col. Scott DeThomas, 6th Air Mobility Wing commander. "The new ADA houses are just one way we are able to increase the overall quality of life that our service members deserve."

The ADA prohibits discrimination and guarantees that people with disabilities have the same opportunities as everyone else to participate in the mainstream of American life--to enjoy employment opportunities, to purchase goods and services, and to participate in state and local
government programs and services.

"Being able to live on base, close to everything, and in an ADA home is a blessing," commented Natalie Lee, mother of a disabled child and resident of the new ADA housing community. "Everyday tasks are much simpler now, it's such a relief."

The project was one of the collaborative efforts between MacDill and Clark Realty Capital, who have developed and constructed 327 new homes on 175 acres at the base for service members and their families.

The housing areas have been designed to increase camaraderie and to foster interaction between neighbors. The developments include amenities such as, a 6,000 square feet welcome center, a resort style pool, children's splash pad, multiple playgrounds, basketball and tennis courts.

"We are pleased to mark this project milestone and look forward to continuing our strong and successful partnership with the United States Air Force well beyond the initial development period," commented Matt Williams, project manager. "We strive to provide the highest quality of life for our residents and their families."

"This is one of the best holiday gifts our family could ask for," commented Lee. "Knowing that our family has everything they need relieves so much stress and is extremely reassuring."