Kirtland AFB lodging buildings get makeover Published June 13, 2011 By Stefan Bocchino 377th Air Base WIng Public Affairs Kirtland Air Force Base -- Lodging has nine buildings scheduled for renovation and upgrades during fiscal year 2011. The project started with complete interior décor renovations in buildings 915 and 922 in September 2010. These buildings are part of the Visiting Airmen's Quarters. They were converted from a 50-room shared bathroom VAQ to a 25-room visiting quarters single suites, containing a living area, bath and bedroom. The renovations were completed in March. "The lodging program has each facility scheduled for a décor upgrade every six years and a total renovation every 12 years," said Robert Lucero, 377th Force Support Squadron Air Force Inns operations manager. "All projects have gone well so far, except that the big freeze back in February hampered our schedule for renovations in building 924, but is now back on track." The renovations will cost approximately $3.9 million, Mr. Lucero said. The upgrades are paid through revenue generated by lodging. No taxpayer money is used for these upgrades. "One goal of the Air Force lodging program is to provide Air Force travelers safe and comfortable transient hotel facilities at all bases," said Mr. Lucero. "Upgrading the interiors of our buildings enables Air Force Inns worldwide to provide standards that match or exceed those of mid-range commercial hotels. The Kirtland lodging community consists of many long-term students. Our furnishings are designed with that in mind." Renovations have also been completed on the general officers quarters. Four more buildings are either in the process of renovation or will be completed by the end of 2011. Base lodging is a three time winner of the Air Force Innkeeper award. "Our goal is to provide the best lodging experience possible for all our visitors," said Mr. Lucero.