Housing construction complete, feedback wanted

  • Published
  • By Sarah Olaciregui
  • 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  The last nail is hammered and the paint is dry as privatized housing begins a new chapter at Hanscom. Construction just wrapped up on 250 new homes, and remodeling projects on 353 homes are finished.

About eight years ago, the transition from government-run housing to privatization began here. As with most new ventures, there were some issues, but now base housing is thriving.

"We have 630 families living in our community," said Kelley Casey, Hanscom Family Housing community director. "That's the most number of families we've ever had since construction started. And it's not just Air Force families. We have all branches of the military represented, plus DoD civilians, contractors and retirees."

Ms. Casey contributes the increase in occupancy to the quality of housing available.

"The new construction and renovations have made the community more appealing," she said. "When Hunt Pinnacle took over several years ago, they committed to building quality homes and they wouldn't compromise. They had a plan and stuck to it. Their vision was to make this a community where military members would want to live."

Along with the new construction, the availability of market rent housing also makes living on base an option for people who may want to save some money, according to Ms. Casey.

New construction and renovations is not the only thing drawing in more residents. Four playgrounds and two basketball courts have been installed. Approximately two miles of new or resurfaced roadways and three miles of concrete walkways have been put in place, as well.

In addition to construction completion, other changes have been going on behind the scenes. This summer, the project ownership changed from Hunt-Pinnacle to Hunt, Inc. As part of this transfer, The Landings at Hanscom was renamed to Hanscom Family Housing.

"This transition was really seamless to residents," Ms. Casey said. "Hunt is invested in taking care of the military family and it has shown over the years. Our staff remains committed and invested in making sure Hanscom Family Housing is the best it can be."

Now, it's time for feedback. Several weeks ago, all housing residents received a survey on their doorsteps. The survey is being used to measure the opinions of residents about their home and the community.

"This is your chance to tell us what you like and don't like," said Ms. Casey. "By filling out the survey, you're telling us what's good or not so good about your home and the community."

Residents who fill out and return the survey, along with the included entry ballot, have a chance to win prizes such as an iPad, high-definition television or gift certificate to the Marriott Long Wharf in Boston.

The last day to turn in surveys is Nov. 11.

Although construction is complete, it doesn't mean activity in the housing area will slow down. Hanscom Family Housing will continue to offer community events such as ice cream socials, fun runs, flower giveaways, breakfast on the go and more.

"Hanscom Family Housing is a wonderful asset to the Hanscom community," said Col. Stacy L. Yike. "They are committed to taking a care of Hanscom residents and growing our community. I encourage everyone who lives on base to fill out a survey in order to make Hanscom a better place to live, work and play."

For further information, visit www.hanscomfamilyhousing.com or call 781-861-5062.