Many staff and students at Fort Benning's child development centers are experiencing what the arrival of 7,000 new families will mean for the post.
They have faced and will continue to face a number of moves in anticipation of the influx, said Indianhead Child Development Center assistant director Alison Smith.
The Main Post Child Development Center is being renovated, and two new facilities - Indianhead and McGraw Child Development and Performing Arts Center - have been built.
Although challenging, Smith said the changes will offset the shortage of supply for the current and forthcoming demand.
"Right now, there is a waitlist for all age groups," she said. "But hopefully, when (Main Post CDC) reopens, we can resolve that."
Smith said Indianhead families are enjoying the new building, although the official grand opening for both new buildings is scheduled for the fall.
"It's modern and up-to-date," said 2LT Cherry Black, mother of 6-week-old Jeremiah and 3-year-old D.J. "The playground is actually my favorite part."
Although her family lives off post, Black said she is assured her children are well taken care of by the friendly staff and safe environment.
"I definitely feel the money we spend is worth it," she said. "I had a choice of cheaper places, but I decided to bring them on post."
Lead preschool teacher Sarah Madden said the new building, which boasts a 55-gallon salt-water fish tank, larger rooms and an updated security system, has been good for her and her students.
"The space is much better, which enables me to teach more effectively," she said.
"Now, when they move into different centers, I can see them because we have a large, open room. This center is up to standard, and it is awesome."
Some of the CYSS SKIESUnlimted classes will start being held at the McGraw center, while the child care services will begin later, said director Carolyn Shelton.
Ultimately, the new building, which will feature two large multipurpose rooms and accommodate 135 people, will house all the classes.
For more information, call 706-545-2079.
$3.7 million
The Indianhead Child Development Center has a capacity for 99 children, newborn through 5 years.
$4.9 million
The McGraw CDC has a capacity for 135 children, newborn through 5 years, and for SKIESUnlimited participants, ages 6 to 10.
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