WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congresswoman Lois Capps helped secure $16.8 million for the construction of a new fitness facility at Vandenberg Air Force Base as part of the FY06 Military Quality of Life & Veterans Affairs Appropriations Conference Report that was passed by the U.S. House of Representatives today.
“This project will provide much-needed modern facilities for military members and their families stationed at the base to help with their training and recreational exercise,” Congresswoman Capps said. “The money will help create an up-to-date fitness center for the men and women – and their families – who protect our country.”
The funding would be used to consolidate fitness activities into one functional facility, supporting the fitness, sports and recreational needs of the military and civilian population on the base. The 20,500 -square-foot facility will house basketball, volleyball and racquetball courts; cardiovascular and aerobic training areas; training and weightlifting rooms; a health and wellness center; sauna; locker rooms; and office area.
The existing Fitness Center is severely deteriorated and has not been renovated since it was built in 1968. In addition, the athletic facilities are currently divided among four buildings. About 750 people use the four fitness facilities each day, and overcrowding during peak times forces more than 150 people to be turned away.
Although funding for this project had been included in the Pentagon’s budget request in previous years, it had never survived the entire appropriations process until today. Capps noted, “I’m very pleased that Congress has enacted such significant funding for a facility that will improve the quality of life for so many Central Coast servicemen and women and their families.”
