Privatization plan set to transform base housing

  • Published
  • By Tyler Hemstreet
  • Staff writer
MCCHORD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. --  With effects of housing privatization already visible here, base officials are pleased with the progress and excited about what the future holds for the quality of life for families living on base.

"You can already see by the fencing around Cascade Village that things are starting to move forward," said Col. Jeffrey Stephenson, 62nd Airlift Wing commander. "In the next few months there will be much more activity as this partnership progresses."

Equity Residential, McChord's housing privatization partner, has already negotiated new leases with nearly 600 families and say many are looking at the project with excitement and anticipation.

"We really want to just build and expand on the real sense of community that is already here," said Cindy Mills, a senior neighborhood manager with Equity.

Improved, connected walking trails throughout the neighborhoods, a new community center and updated housing are things Equity officials hope will further add to the appeal of living on base, said Equity neighborhood manager Tracy Wilkinson.

"Those amenities are something the Air Force might not have been able to provide in the project timetable we're dealing with," Ms. Wilkinson said.

Initial construction projections for 2009 include 38 new homes being built, 54 undergoing major renovations, 141 undergoing renovations and completion of the community center.

Equity's ability to use its line of credit to secure funding, thereby speeding up the construction process, is something the company believes will produce tangible project results in a short amount of time, she said.

It all translates into a good situation for those living on base, Colonel Stephenson said.

"Airmen and their families will enjoy the new amenities of housing privatization and have the benefit of living in a community of neighbors with a common sense of culture, shared values and security," said Colonel Stephenson. "Other benefits include the convenience of support facilities and organizations nearby, the formal and informal family support networks critical during deployments, and elimination of a costly commute from off-base saving time, fuel, and money."