MARINE CORPS LOGISTICS BASE ALBANY, Ga. -- The first Marines slated to move into the newly-constructed homes here got to view a few examples of housing styles during an open house here Sept. 10.
The new homes are part of a $38 million Public Private Venture which provides new and modern housing for Marines and their families while replacing the older and outdated housing units.
There will be a total of 110 new houses built by the time that Marines and their families begin moving in October. The completed construction will feature a new community center with a swimming pool and more park-like surroundings.
Steve Browne, vice president and general manager of Lincoln Military Housing, said that his goal was to provide Marines and their families with plenty of space, amenities and plenty of recreational areas including new playground areas for children.
“We have heard such positive feedback,” Browne said. “Families have been surprised at the amount of space and the extras we have provided.”
Touring the new homes was the Gonzalez family, who were immediately impressed by the difference between the old and new homes.
“It’s really like night and day compared to the one we have now,” said Staff Sgt. Jose D. Gonzalez, project manager, Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear Defense; Consolidated Storage Division, Marine Corps Logistics Command, with five children and two pets, space is the most important feature of the new homes.
Beyond the overall modern look and size of the new housing, the modern construction techniques used in the process also provided a step up in energy efficiency and a positive impact on the environment.
According to Toni Byrne, Clark Builders Group, her group focused on building “green.” Some of the materials used in the new homes has been salvaged from the old homes.
Along with that she also said her focus is to provide energy efficient lighting and appliances.
“All of the appliances are Energy Star (compliant), and we went with compact fluorescent lighting,” Byrne said.
Additionally, she said the homes use Earth friendly geothermal heating and cooling.
“The improvement of the quality of life in our Marines and their families has improved dramatically,” said Col. Terry V. Williams, commanding officer, Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany, Ga. “The comments that we get back (about the homes) are incredible.”
The grand opening of the PPV homes is slated for Sept. 28, and new residents are expected to start moving in by late October.