Naval Facilities Engineering Command Far East awarded a $12.7 million contract to renovate a midrise tower at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, Sept. 28.

The project will revitalize 44 junior enlisted two-bedroom family housing units at Building 656, which was constructed in 1995.

"The whole-house revitalization will enhance the quality of life for many Sailors and Marines aboard MCAS Iwakuni," said facilities Engineering and Acquisition Division Director Lt. Vinnie DiBlasi. "In addition to bringing the building up to code for life, health, and safety reasons, the whole house revitalization of Building 656 will bring many creature comforts which are currently lacking."

These include updates to the HVAC system, better lighting throughout the units, additional ceiling fans, more maintainable finishes for the families, and brand new kitchens and bathrooms.

"These creature comfort items can have a large impact on the morale of the service members and their families while stationed at MCAS Iwakuni. By providing housing options that members will want to be assigned to, we ensure they can focus on the mission and all of the wonderful opportunities offered in Japan," said DiBlasi.

Other work will include replacing the cement roof and underlying membrane; replacing the rooftop chiller; replacing all sewage and domestic drain piping and water piping. The exterior will be repainted. Window upgrades and other facility modifications will meet current Antiterrorism/Force Protection Standards.

The $12,776,741 contract was awarded to NIPPO Corporation, of Tokyo, Japan. Work is scheduled for completion in January 2017.


For more news from Naval Facilities Engineering Command, visit www.navy.mil/.