Transfer of Centennial Housing on track, infrastructure changes delayed

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ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  While the transfer of units in Centennial Housing to Hunt Building Corporation will occur as scheduled, the infrastructure changes will be delayed until spring 2012.

The delay stems from the time needed to move the boundary fence that will separate base housing from privatized housing, and for the construction of a new road and utilities.

"Airmen living in Centennial will certainly have questions about this delay, and we want to provide answers, and make certain their concerns are addressed," said Col. Jeffrey Taliaferro, 28th Bomb Wing commander. "They'll have the opportunity to ask questions and get the latest information during a town hall meeting for Centennial residents at 6 p.m., April 11 at the base theater."

The colonel added that Airmen and their families are our highest priority, and he wants to ensure they understand how this delay may impact them.

While still located on base, as of Aug.1, housing units in Centennial Estates will not be military family housing. The Hunt Building Corporation will perform in the same manner previously expected - collect rent, perform repairs, plow roads, provide busing, etc. - but improvements to the units such as painting the exteriors and decks may be delayed until next spring.

For security reasons, only personnel with unescorted access to the base will be allowed to rent there. Base emergency responders will still respond to Centennial since it is within the base boundary; however Ellsworth will not oversee the community as it does today.

"It's still up to our Airmen if they want to stay or move," Colonel Taliaferro said, noting that the delay should be an advantage to our Airmen as it offers more guaranteed access to the area, more security, more community with fellow Airmen, and a shorter commute.

"We're going to continue be proactive in providing answers and assistance to our Airmen as these changes happen," the colonel said. "We're going to make every effort to facilitate a smooth transition."