FORT EUSTIS, Va. –
After seven months and more than $3.6 million invested into a much-needed upgrade, renovations at Fort Eustis' Anderson Field House are complete.
The 50-year-old historic building's doors opened the morning of Feb. 4 to welcome Service members, military families and civilians to enjoy the new, state-of-the-art equipment.
"Anderson Field House definitely has a new look," said William Vonohlen, chief of the 733rd Force Support Division's sustainment services branch. "There were many areas that were renovated, such as locker room facilities, basketball courts and bleachers, weight room, exercising room and even classroom spaces. We also added a new heating and cooling system."
According to Vonohlen, the facility provides services for more than 2,500 people, weekly. In addition to providing prime workout space for the Fort Eustis community, Anderson Field House supports special events, including changes of command and deployment and homecoming ceremonies for the post's units.
"A lot of people come here often, and with the added upgrades we should expect more as time progresses," Vonohlen said.
Renovations also included a new lobby, bathrooms, utility rooms, break room, main entrance and equipment issue room.
"So far, we've received great feedback. People really like what has been done," he said.
"I enjoy playing volleyball and today was my first time back using the facility. The new courts and equipment are really nice," said Pat Teifer, U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command Resource Management.
Retired Army Staff Sgt. Everett Glover, a patron, said the new renovations will, "certainly improve the quality of life."
"We've needed these upgrades for a long time," said Glover. "Not only will this benefit the Soldiers and their families, but we have a lot of retirees who come in and use the facility as well.
"Many years ago when I was active-duty, I remembered the old wooden floors," recalling the way the gyms used to look. "But today it looks great, and I think it's going to get a lot of use."
Anderson Field House is open 7 days a week; Monday through Friday from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday 9 a.m. to 6.pm. The facility is open on holidays, except Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years.