ABC7 Amarillo reports how Air Force military families were able to be a part of the construction process of hundreds of new and renovated homes at Cannon Air force Base:
CLOVIS, N.M. (KVII) — Within the last few years, Cannon Air Force Base has gotten a complete face lift when it comes to homes for military personnel. With the help of Balfour Beatty Communities the base has 677 new homes and 359 renovated homes, and it wouldn’t have been possible without the help of Air Force families.
The Air Force and Cannon residents also had a say in the many amenities that were added – a pool, splash pad, tennis courts, picnic pavilions, walking paths all throughout the communities, and more. “Our residents are very happy with the homes,” said David Short, acting manager of Cannon Family Homes. “Pretty much 100% I believe of their wants were put into the plans in terms of developing the homes here” – and while construction is done, it remains a joint operation.
“We have a 24-hour maintenance program for those after hour emergencies. We also have a self help store – if they get a light bulb burnt out or need a new AC filter or need batteries for the smoke detectors, grass seed, lawn equipment – it’s all free to residents to help maintain homes and that, they wouldn’t find outside the gate,” explained Short.
Monthly meetings with tenant representatives also help keep the lines of communication open. Representatives are able to bring questions or concerns to the table to be addressed and they are also able to represent management.
“Just another benefit of having tenant reps helping us communicate with residents and find out what their wants and needs are so we can try and reach out and meet them,” explains Short.
…Cannon AFB was one of the first bases where the families were able to be a part of the construction process. Due to the success, Balfour Beatty announced the implementation of it’s Collaborative Building Program for future military projects.