Columbus BX set for renovation Published Nov. 5, 2009 By 2nd Lt. Erik Svendsen 14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs COLUMBUS AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- The Columbus Base Exchange will join the rest of the base in taking advantage of Army and Air Force Exchange Service renovation funds soon. According to Base Exchange General Manager Jerry Herron, the first renovations will begin in the beginning of December, starting with Military Clothing Sales Store, which will triple in size. The renovations are being phased in order to minimize the effect on the base populous. Most of the interior of the BX will be remodeled, including everything from the floors to the ceilings. Mr. Herron has worked in conjunction with buying groups to better match merchandise selection to that of the current Columbus Air Force Base demographics. The food court will be temporarily moved as remodeling takes place during the holidays. The beauty shop will be moved into the former drycleaners, and the barber shop will move to where the beauty shop is presently located. The current barber shop area will possibly become a new food establishment. Work on the entrance area of the BX will start the beginning of January, and customers will use the Commissary entrance instead. The remaining parts of the BX will be remodeled starting in February, beginning with the Power Zone and ending with Outdoor Living. Areas that are closed for construction will be temporarily relocated to the Outdoor Living area. After construction has ended, the Power Zone will resemble that of most other AAFES stores with a new desk that will be manned with an employee for assistance, and the outdoor area will be fully covered. Some walls will be removed to make better use of space. The renovations will cost close to $750,000 and should be completed by the end of April 2010.
