Work set to begin on lodging for Rodeo 2009 Published Sept. 12, 2008 By Tyler Hemstreet Staff writer MCCHORD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- Thanks to a little help from Gen. Arthur Lichte, Air Mobility Command commander, the 62nd Force Support Squadron's lodging section is moving forward on improvements that will better prepare the base for visitor accommodations during Rodeo 2009. The section was recently granted nearly $2.6 million from AMC to begin renovation of 100 rooms in Buildings 1149 and 1150, said Master Sgt. Brent Kerns, 62nd FSS lodging section chief. The renovations will turn the former dormitories into lodging rooms to accommodate international team members during Rodeo. "There was a very quick turnaround on the request for funds," Sergeant Kerns said. "We didn't think we'd get it that fast. Our goal is to get the rooms back on line for Rodeo." A contractor for the project was recently selected and work will start next month, said Johnnie Bennett, general lodging manager with the 62nd FSS. The section has vacated 107 lodging rooms in Buildings 595, 596 and 597 because the buildings are not up to current lodging standards, Mr. Bennett said. Initially, the section was going to lose nearly 1/3 of its lodging capabilities, but that won't be the case now thanks to the money from AMC. Renovations to the rooms in Buildings 1149 and 1150 include modifying the dormitory-style suites so guests don't have to walk through a shared bathroom to gain access to their lounge. Roughly half of the rooms in the new buildings will be suites, Mr. Bennett said. "It's a much better arrangement for everyone," he added. "We're pretty excited about it." The new additions will not only help the section avoid sending international guests to hotels off base, but also keep more of the guests staying on base closer to the main lodging building, Sergeant Kerns said. The lodging section also recently completed a $700,000 project in Buildings 1147 and 1148, installing new carpet and furniture.