Construction crews busy at GARB Published Nov. 28, 2006 By Senior Airman Ben Mota 434th ARW Public Affairs GRISSOM AIR RESERVE BASE, Ind -- The face of Grissom is changing dramatically. Each month when reservists return to Grissom they see more changes to some areas and completely new construction in others. Even before entering the base, construction equipment, large holes in the ground, building supplies, and the new faces of construction workers mark the changes being made. Some of the construction projects that are underway include: a new radar approach control facility, new main gate, base operations renovation/life support addition, mass parking apron, taxiway/threshold lights, the readiness storage area, runway improvements and fire suppression for the nose docks. These projects and future projects are important because they help to meet the needs and mission of the base, said Oliver Woodd, an engineering technician here. One of the largest projects, the new radar approach control facility, began construction in October and is expected to be completed March 2008. It will contain new generation radar technology to replace the current outdated equipment. The new 9,900-square foot RAPCON will include 20 rooms and provide work areas for 26 air traffic controllers and staff. The facility will continue to provide air traffic control services to both military and civilian aircraft. The new main gate, a $3.2 million project, is being built to help with traffic congestion, and improve security. "The new main gate will give security forces a modern way to protect the assets on the base while at the same time making it possible to adjust check-point security levels as needed," said Brig. Gen. Dean Despinoy, 434th Air Refueling Wing commander. The gate project will include a new visitor center, a truck inspection facility, and a new parking area. The main gate project is expected to be completed August 2007. "New construction and the renovation of old construction is a never ending process," said Mr. Woodd. "We must continue to make the necessary changes to the base to keep up with new technology and secure the safety of all personnel on base." Grissom expects to spend more than $23 million on these construction projects. The money being spent on the renovation and new construction on the base has a large impact on the local economy since the main contractors will be sub-contracting to many contractors in and around the local area. "The amount of money and current projects indicate to me that the command plans for this base to be here for a long time," General Despinoy added.
