Lodging gets a facelift

  • Published
  • By Mr. Clay Kraby
  • 319th Services Squadron
GRAND FORKS AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. --  This past fall the Temporary Lodging Facilities units of the Warrior Inn underwent an $180,000 dollar renovation. The touch-ups included everything from new carpet and drapes to new appliances and mattresses. The facility opened with rave reviews from customers, and the facilities are continually applauded as best in Air Mobility Command.

Being the best is important to the lodging staff here at Grand Forks AFB because the TLF is truly a home-away-from-home. These units have their own washer and dryer, stove, microwave, dishwasher and household refrigerator, and provide comfort to the TDY traveler and their families. Over the past four years, the TLF facilities have maintained nearly a 100 percent occupancy rate, and Mr. Mike Boyd, 319th Services Squadron, says, "They just exceeded the facility's capabilities; it was time for an update."

Although previous customers hardly knew the facility was deteriorating, Mr. Boyd attributed that to the efforts of the housekeeping and maintenance staff. Despite the increased wear and tear attributed to the high occupancy, "the staff helped maintain the facility and created a positive experience for guests, right up until the renovation began."

"Money for the renovation was possible due to a portion of room charges being captured each month by AMC," explained Mr. Boyd. The command lodging fund is used for lodging improvements and renovations throughout the command. Last year, Mr. Boyd successfully lobbied AMC to approve early renovation for the TLFs and is now in the process of getting funds for improvements to other room groups within the next two years.

The TLF units are specifically designed to accommodate inbound and outbound families, as well as the official TDY traveler, but any unused units are filled with "space available" guests. Space available units are able to be rented by anyone who has the ability to get on base. Restrictions are placed on how far in advance reservations can be placed. Grand Forks AFB has 10 two-bedroom TLF units which sleep up to seven guests and 17 one-bedroom TLF units that sleep four.

Call lodging at 747-7200 for rates and reservations.