First phase of housing renovations nears completion

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Rachel Martinez
  • 35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan --  Base housing is getting a face-lift through the Post Acquisition Improvement Program. 

PAIP is a large-scale housing renovation. The program includes four phases, with the first phase scheduled for completion at the end of May. 

"The intent was to modernize and provide more efficient housing to meet modern lifestyles," said Deb Warner, 35th Civil Engineer Squadron, chief of design and construction team C. 

Phase one includes approximately $52 million in upgrades to 281 on-base housing units, six of which are handicap adaptable. Renovations include new plumbing, new fixtures in the kitchen and bathroom, a covered entryway and additional storage. Additionally, the carpet, floor tiles and paint are all new. 

"It's been extensive," Ms. Warner said in regards to the renovations. "I was taken aback when I first walked in. People move in and out of base housing so often; it was refreshing to see something so new." 

The exterior electrical power distribution system was also upgraded. While air conditioning was not added, the system was designed to support an air conditioner should they be authorized in the future, according to Ms. Warner. The housing units will still be heated with steam heat, but occupants no longer have to deal with a radiator taking up valuable square footage. Each room features an in-ceiling unit and its own thermostat. 

"Renovations throughout military family housing are important to keep retainability," said Robert Anderson, 35th Civil Engineer Squadron housing project manager. "Due to limited military family housing funding, rarely do you have whole house renovation projects like we are having here at Misawa. The renovations have greatly improved the living conditions for our on base residents. In addition, these renovations have extended the life of these facilities by 20 years." 

Construction on phase one of PAIP began in January 2007. As units are completed they are turned over to the housing office to fill. To date, the housing office has accepted 225 of the renovated units and moved 108 military families in. 

"These families are very happy and really like the quality craftsmanship and the layout of their new homes," said Mr. Anderson. He added many families have positively commented on the covered patio areas.

Phases two and three of construction have been awarded contract. More than 500 additional units are scheduled for renovation under these two phases, with construction scheduled to begin in June. A fourth phase is in the early planning stages.