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Seabees Break Ground on NAS Jacksonville Admin Facility

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS090610-08
Release Date: 6/10/2009 4:00:00 PM

By Clark Pierce, Jax Air News Editor

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. (NNS) -- NAS Jacksonville Commanding Officer Capt. Jack Scorby Jr. joined the construction specialists of Construction Battalion Maintenance Unit (CBMU) 202 Detachment Jacksonville June 4 to break ground on a new, two-story administration facility at the Seabee's Birmingham Avenue compound.

Scorby attended to express his support and appreciation for the Seabee's "Can Do" attitude.

"You guys are true professionals who play a vital role in the mission of NAS Jax. Not only do you provide public works and disaster recovery support at the highest level – you also construct base facilities of the highest quality," said Scorby.

Builder First Class Logan Ash explained, "This project will allow us to consolidate office spaces currently scattered around our compound. Seabees will provide most of the skilled labor required for the sub-grade utilities, foundation, concrete block walls, steel erection and electrical systems – with certain phases, such as HVAC, contracted out. This project is great because it enables Seabees to hone their construction skill sets, as well as cross-train with other rates."

Ensign Russ McCaskill of NAS Jax Public Works Department is the project manager for the construction of the administration building.

"The budget is about $810,000 and the build time is estimated at 15 months, weather permitting. Wherever possible, we're incorporating 'green points' for energy efficiency, water reclamation, and even how we site the building. When this project is complete, the original admin office will be demolished and returned to green space," added McCaskill.

Crew Leader Second Class Sean Kidwell, who is in charge of running the project day to day, leads a crew of 10 Seabees from construction specialties such as, builders, electricians, steelworkers, equipment operators and utilitiesmen.

"It's my job to make sure every day runs according to plan and jobs are accomplished. That means materials are properly staged and any special tools or equipment are ready to go. Of course, constructing this project with quality and safety is always top of mind," said Kidwell.

Lt. Reginald Cozart, officer in charge of CBMU 202 Detachment Jacksonville, thanked Scorby for his support.

"I know our skipper is a champion of replacing obsolete, World War II-era buildings at NAS Jacksonville. This construction project will bring our Seabees compound into the 21st century. The building's first floor will house our command element and the top floor will house our conference and classroom space, plus, men's and women's locker rooms. When our new administration facility is complete – two cramped and inefficient buildings will go down."