6th MDG construction expected through Jan. 2017

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Vernon L. Fowler Jr.
  • 6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
MACDILL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla --  Beginning with a pre-construction meeting in March, the 6th Medical Group (MDG) at MacDill Air Force Base, Florida, is slated to undergo construction through January 26, 2017.

The stucco on the exterior of the building will be removed and replaced with an Exterior Insulation and Finish System (EIFS). This construction project will be implemented in nine phases, with a cost of $5.2 million. As a benefit, the project will maintain the integrity of the building.

"The building's infrastructure, windows, doors, roofline, etc. could become jeopardized more rapidly without this project," said Capt. Todd Loebs, Medical Logistics flight commander assigned to the 6th Medical Support Squadron (MDSS).

The first phase will pose as a plan review phase. The next seven phases will each be dedicated to a section of the building. The ninth, and final, stage will pose as the completion, or close-out, phase.

Presently, the main concern is the affect that this will have on patients here at MacDill.
According to Al Martin, facility manager assigned to the 6th MDG, the effects of construction on day-to-day operations are expected to be minimal. He will work hand-in-hand with the construction project manager to forecast any potential interruptions and minimize impact.

"Currently there is no reason to believe that the MDG will experience any operational interruptions," said Tony Boyd, safety officer assigned to the 6th MDG. "However, there will be Interim Life Safety Measures (ILSM) put in place to ensure the safety of patients, staff and visitors."

These safety measures are taken to temporarily compensate for the hazards presented by construction activities. For example, if an exit is closed due to construction, clearly visible signs must be placed to safely direct people to the alternate exit.

"Patient, staff and visitor safety is of the highest priority," said Boyd. "The MDG will ensure safety measures are implemented, and will make every effort to minimize inconveniences to our patients."