McChord Field Fitness Center to begin renovation project early January

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Leah Young
  • 62nd Airlift Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash. --  Racquetball players, weight lifters and other gym goers may have to alter exercise routines as the McChord Field Fitness Center begins an estimated six-month renovation project in early January.

According to Rick Randall, Joint Base Lewis-McChord Non-Appropriated Funds Resource Management division chief, the estimated period for the Fitness Center renovation project is 280 days. The project will consist of two phases.

While still operational, the Fitness Center will experience minor closures throughout the six-month renovation. The Fitness Annex will not be affected by the renovation project.

"During the renovations, customers can expect limited periods of fitness center closures," said Master Sgt. Bonnie Longie, 627th Force Support Squadron Fitness Center manager. "We will absolutely try to minimize the impact to our patrons as much as possible. Everything we offer in the main facility is planned to be offered in the Fitness Annex."

During renovations, the Fitness Annex will mirror the current Main Fitness Center hours, which are Monday through Friday from 5 a.m. to midnight and weekends and holidays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Phase one will include closing and renovating four racquetball courts. Interior walls between the courts will be removed, creating one large room for both cardio and strength equipment.

The existing wall between the two courts to be converted will be removed to create archways, establishing one large exercise space with similar equipment grouped together.

Work will also be done to upgrade the electrical panels throughout the facility, as well as the heating and ventilation system.

During phase two, which is slated to begin in April, the current cardio room will be converted to the core and stretching functional fitness room.

Rubber flooring will be installed throughout cardio, strength and functional fitness rooms. Tile flooring will be upgraded throughout the hallway and lobby. Also, a new front service counter and basketball backboards will be installed.

In addition to utilizing the Fitness Annex, located right next to the Fitness Center, patrons can also fulfill their fitness needs at one of the five centers located throughout Lewis North and Lewis Main.

"Within seven months, this facility will look completely different," said Longie. "The actual square footage won't increase, but with all of the upgrades, this place will be hard to recognize. We ask for everyone's patience and flexibility when conducting their workouts."

A common customer of the McChord Field Fitness Center and retired Soldier, James Lincoln, says he understands the pros of the renovation will outweigh the cons.

"This project will definitely be a positive thing," said Lincoln. "I like the idea of consolidating all of the equipment. It makes sense to have similar equipment close together. I'm excited to see the finished project."

For more information about Joint Base Lewis-McChord fitness centers, visit www.jblmmwr.com.