Base leaders visit new homes

Published Jan. 8, 2008
By Susan Griggs
81st Training Wing Public Affairs

KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, MISS. -- Col. Greg Touhill, 81st Training Wing commander, and Col. Richard Pierce, vice commander, toured new homes under construction in Thrower Park Dec. 27.

The area, which begins housing 198 junior enlisted families later this year, is part of the largest military family housing project in Air Force history.

Craig Mercers, base housing program manager, said that before Christmas, the following milestones had been reached:

First floor walls are up on homes numbered 1 to 94.

Second floor trusses and walls are up for homes 1-74.

Roof decking is complete for homes 1-45.

Wallboard is installed for homes 1-39.

Siding is in place on homes 1-24.

Termite treatment is complete for homes 1-32.

Electrical panels are in-stalled and wired for homes 1-24.

Insulation is done for homes 1-19.

The curb and gutter system is finished for the first street, which is being prepared for a 2 1/2-inch primary binder coat of asphalt, according to Mr. Mercers. The first area of construction will have a fully-paved street prior to turnover.

Landscaping, sodding and fencing layout has begun and all underground utility work is complete except work which is continuing on the lift station.

Mr. Mercers said the government's final inspection of the first 36 units is planned for next month.