REDSTONE ARSENAL, Ala. (Nov. 16, 2015) -- Renovations are near completion as the U.S. Army Aviation and Missile Research, Development, and Engineering Center prepares to open its new front entrance. A facelift for the Science and Engineering Laboratory Annex, commonly referred to as the SELA, includes major renovations to the center's main lobby, auditorium, restrooms, and portions of the connecting hallways.
"The projects are being constructed utilizing sustainable materials and energy efficient products," commented AMRDEC Director, James Lackey. "All new finishes incorporating AMRDEC branding and colors will bring a refreshed, modern look to a facility that is approximately 20 years old."
Serving as the entry for AMRDEC leadership and visitors, the SELA lobby will include an enlarged and relocated receptionist desk helping to improve traffic flow and congestion due to visitors' sign in. The receptionist's visibility will also be enhanced improving safety and security.
AMRDEC's Physical Security Officer, Furman Daniels stated that while the aesthetics of the building will be recognized immediately, safety of the workforce was the number one priority during renovations.
"The SELA South Entry Point had a small lobby and provided the Badge Checker insufficient oversight of guests and visitors using of the SELA auditorium and restrooms," said Daniels. "Due to limited space, it was paramount that we provide a more suitable environment for access control while making a lasting impression."
Common Access Card readers will also be installed in the center's entrance to improve security and accessibility after hours for cleared employees. The access control system is the beginning of an effort to equip more of AMRDEC's buildings with advanced, regulated entrances.
Employees can also look forward to drastic remodeled features in the auditorium. The classified meeting room will have enhanced audio and video capabilities with the incorporation of added monitors to improve viewers' visibility, while newly-installed sound doors will help to reduce external noise. The redesign includes a new kitchenette that will cater to assemblies, but serve as a break room for employees throughout the week.
"The auditorium renovations include an increase in seating capacity from approximately 49 seats to 145 new fixed seats including reserved seating for persons with disabilities," Lackey said. "Additionally, accessibility has been improved for persons with disabilities to allow for access the front of the auditorium."
While the initiative has been underway since 2009, construction officially began in March 2015 due to paperwork and funding. Completion for the project is currently on schedule for Dec. 31, 2015.
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The U.S. Army 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 ensure decisive overmatch for unified land operations to empower the Army, the joint warfighter and our nation. RDECOM is a major subordinate command of the U.S. Army Materiel Command.
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