New look for aviation and missile dining facility

By Carlotta Maneice, AMRDEC Public AffairsAugust 21, 2015

Cafeteria Remodel
(Photo Credit: U.S. Army) VIEW ORIGINAL

REDSTONE ARSENAL, Ala. (Aug. 21, 2015) -- Patrons can expect a different ambience in the building 5400 cafeteria this fall. The newly named Ctrl+Alt+Eat dining facility will welcome Aviation and Missile Research, Development and Engineering Center diners with several new features.

"One of our roles in facilities is to look for ways to increase employee morale and their quality of life," said Donna Suhs, AMRDEC Facilities mechanical engineer and project manager. "When you can enhance the workforce's quality of life, it makes a huge difference."

Ctrl+Alt+Eat will introduce a more contemporary feel with new glass doors, backsplash, new cabinets, LED lights and updated architectural ceiling tiles. Carpet will be removed and replaced with ceramic tile and bistro tables will be available. New chairs and tables will seat nearly 150 people. Handicapped height cabinets will contain garbage bins making it accessible for individuals with disabilities to dispose of their trash.

"We wanted to create a lighter and more inviting environment," said Suhs. "We will continue to have WiFi and additional outlets so diners can charge their electronic devices."

Televisions will have connectivity to the auditorium, V-brick and local television stations. They will be accessible so patrons can view special events and meetings occurring throughout AMRDEC.

"We look at areas that will have the biggest impact and help the general population," Suhs said. "Everyone agreed that the cafeteria needed a face lift and updating it extends the life of the building."

The renovations of the Ctrl+Alt+Delete will only affect the dining portion of the cafeteria and will not include the kitchen area. Food selection and preparation of meals will continue under the Directorate of Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation.

Original redesign of the cafeteria began in 2012, but funding was not available until fiscal year 2014. Although work is being done during work hours, remodeling will alternate between the north and south side of the building to minimize disruption. Completion is expected in late November or early December of this year.

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The Aviation and Missile Research, Development and Engineering Center is part of the U.S. Army Research, Development and Engineering Command, which has the mission to develop technology and engineering solutions for America's Soldiers.

RDECOM is a major subordinate command of the U.S. Army Materiel Command. AMC is the Army's premier provider of materiel readiness -- technology, acquisition support, materiel development, logistics power projection, and sustainment -- to the total force, across the spectrum of joint military operations. If a Soldier shoots it, drives it, flies it, wears it, eats it or communicates with it, AMC provides it.

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