Alconbury Fitness Center starts major renovation project

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Joel Mease
  • 501st Combat Support Wing Public Affairs
RAF ALCONBURY, United Kingdom --  The RAF Alconbury Fitness Center will start work on a five-phase $4.5 million renovation process with an estimated start date of mid January.

The renovation project, expected to last 9 to 12 month, will occur in all areas of the fitness center; however the facility is scheduled to remain open within current operating hours.

"We have partnered with the 423rd Civil Engineer Squadron to maximize space to continue to offer opportunities in all areas of fitness," said 1st Lt. Paul Ziegler, 423rd Force Support Squadron Sustainment Services Flight commander. "Some of our indoor sports programs will be curtailed, because portions of the project will require relocating equipment to the floor of the basketball court."

The renovations will bring some big changes to the fitness center, which will make the building more user friendly and provide a better environment for physical fitness.

"We are really excited about the changes, although we realize there will be some disturbances to normal routines," Ziegler said. "Our primary aim is to improve the building's infrastructure and current layout, creating a better flow for fitness and sports activities. The most visible change will be in the entrance, lobby areas and locker rooms."

The design for the lobby and reception area will create more space and easier access to the basketball court, resistance machines, free weights and cardio room. The corridor leading to the parent/child area will also be expanded. The locker rooms will also get a complete refurbishment and become compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Work will also be done on the ventilation, roof and heating systems.

"We will move a collection of strength and cardio equipment into the basketball court area for people to use during the different phases of the project," Ziegler said. "Since the showers will be receiving a major overhaul, the contractor will provide a temporary shower and latrine facility with covered walk ways set up in the area near the Community Activity Center."

During the refurbishment, the fitness center staff will provide updates on the changes to the building to the Alconbury community. The staff will also be looking for volunteers during the different phases to move equipment, so people can continue to use the fitness equipment during the renovation.

Project timeline

· Phase 1 (January): Preparation work will begin during this phase, and the basketball court will become unavailable for use. A temporary shower and latrine facility will be built near the Community Activity Center. The other areas of the fitness center will still be accessible during this period.
· Phase 2 (estimated February -July): The lobby and locker rooms will no longer be available for use; however the temporary shower and latrine facility will be open. The entrance to the gym will be through the basketball court.
· Phase 3 (estimated August - October): The aerobics room, free weights room, resistance machines room and racquetball courts will no longer be available. Cardio, weights and resistance machine equipment will be available on the basketball court.
· Phase 4 (estimated October): During this phase all areas on the first floor will begin to reopen for customer use.
· Phase 5 (estimated October - December): The upstairs fitness, aerobics and spin areas will no longer be available for use.

"The fitness staff greatly appreciates your patience as the work progresses, and we know you will be proud and excited once the construction is complete," Ziegler said.

Contact the fitness staff at 268-3531 for additional information or to set up an appointment to discuss your personal or group fitness needs during this project.