FORT RUCKER, Ala. -- Contractors reached the halfway mark in constructing a new, 22,600 square foot, 600-seat chapel on Guthrie Airfield July 22, according to post officials.
Work has been ongoing since the February groundbreaking, and a tentative grand opening is slated for mid-January, said Chaplain (Maj.) Mark Mitera, Fort Rucker chaplain resource manager.
Builders noted the project is on track and running smoothly, thanks to pleasant weather.
"We're right on schedule. There's been no need to alter the original design plan," said Terry Thurston, a contracted job superintendent from Brasfield and Gorrie, in Birmingham.
The Andrews Avenue location offers easy access for advanced individual training and Warrant Officer Career College students, individuals often without personal transportation, Mitera noted. It also eliminates the need for two Sunday worship services at the Chapel of Wings.
"We'll be able to conduct one large worship service," Mitera said. "It also (gives) us a large fellowship area. It will bring the community closer because everyone will see each other (at the same service)."
About 50 crew members have labored over the project, said Thurston. Construction should be complete by mid-December, allowing for finishing touches to be finalized during Christmas Exodus and early January.
The team completed the metal building structure July 23, according to contractor Aaron Randall, quality control manager at The Clement Group in Montgomery. The next step is installing bricks, stucco and the chapel roof.
He said contractors are excited to lend their talents to build a facility to benefit Soldiers and Families.
"With the (building's) size and the diversity of the religious services held here, the chapel staff will be able to cater to everyone's needs," Randall said. "It's a multi-use building."
In the meantime, chapel staff continues to service their parishioners by hosting Team Impact Aug. 15 from 11 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. at the Post Theater.
The team consists of elite athletes who will be "demonstrating feats of strength while sharing (inspirational) messages," Mitera said. Team Impact members break bricks and bend bars, but also incorporate spiritual lessons.
Following the event, chapel members are invited to Rucker Lanes for a "Burger and Bowl" event at 12:30 p.m.
For more information, call the chaplain's office at 255-2989.
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