The Indiana National Guard has plans for an addition to its Columbus facility, though the project will likely not take place for another year or so.
“We plan to build an equipment repair shop on armory land with a small alteration,” said Indiana National Guard spokesman Master Sgt. Jeff Lowry. “The project is scheduled for federal fiscal year 2024 for approximately $6 million.”
The Indiana National Guard’s construction and facilities office has met with Columbus Municipal Airport Director Brian Payne to discuss the project, as the local armory is located on airport property at 2160 Arnold St.
Lowry said the upgrades to the Columbus site are part of the Indiana National Guard’s 20-year modernization plan to improve its facilities around the state.
Guard officials said many of its current facilities were built an average of 57 years ago and designed for smaller units mainly made up of male service members.
As a result, restrooms and showers in particular need to be renovated to meet present-day standards and for all those serving in the Guard.
“Our response to the COVID missions showed how adaptable our citizen-soldiers are and yet also highlighted the need to improve our facilities,” said Jason Brady, the business manager for the Indiana National Guard’s construction and facilities office, in an official statement. “Many facilities use window air conditioning and boilers that are not energy efficient. Upgrading to modern heating and air conditioning equipment will improve the climate for our service members and Hoosiers who utilize the armories for different events.”
