AFRC Resorts - Investing in the Future

June 04, 2019

Every year, over 1.7 million service members, retirees and their families visit an Armed Forces Recreation Center Resort (AFRC) to make vacation memories they will cherish forever. With a portfolio of over 2,000 rooms in Germany, Florida, Korea and Hawaii and an average occupancy over 80%, that level of use puts a strain on facilities over time. To ensure future generations of service members are able to experience these incredible locations worldwide, AFRC Resorts are undergoing a strategic initiative to reinvest nonappropriated funds totaling over $145 million dollars in facility improvements.

"The enhancements made at AFRC Resorts helps us to stay relevant for our customers and maintain our position as the preeminent symbol of commitment to our service members and their well-being," said Marc J. Jannsen, Chief, Hospitality Programs (AFRCs and Army Lodging), Installation Management Command (IMCOM).

The iconic Hale Koa Hotel on Waikiki Beach with its rich history, stunning location and unique culture currently has over 70 separate reinvestment projects. Thoughtfully redesigned to evoke the spirit of the Hawaiian Islands, the brand new outdoor aquatics complex compliments the incredible views of Waikiki Beach and the Pacific Ocean. The redesigned pool is scheduled to open late summer of 2019. It includes water slides, a wading pool, splash pads, baby slide, fountains, hot tub and water features for all ages. Lounging in the new infinity pool overlooking a colorful sunset on the Pacific Ocean is certain to leave lasting memories for service member guests.

Many Hale Koa guests will be staying in one of 396 newly revitalized rooms in the Maile tower. The rejuvenation of the rooms with new furnishings, headboards, beds, carpeting and light fixtures will transform the guest vacation experience and perfectly reflect the islands culture and vibe. Recognizing the comfort today's military travelers come to expect, the completely renovated guest bathrooms feature walk-in, all-glass, white tile showers, over-sized mirrors, and porcelain tile flooring that make them feel and look bright and airy.

Additionally, projects that the guests won't see but are vital to the operability and sustainment of the facility include roof replacements, new air handling units, building systems like electrical, plumbing, and air conditioning, parking garage structure repairs and exterior lighting upgrades. The Director of Engineering, Derek Bacigal, tasked to manage the 75 renovation projects was recently selected by the Hawaii Lodging and Tourism Association as their Manager of the Year. "All of the projects we are working hard to complete are focused on ensuring our guest experience is commensurate with their service to their nation," said Derek.

What is often referred to as the "Most Magical place on Earth", the Shades of Green located on Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida is also substantially investing in sustainment projects. The Shades Resort recently finished renovating 284 guest rooms in their Magnolia Wing, including refurbished guest rooms, corridors, and common areas. Allthe furniture in the main lobby has been thoughtfully redesigned. The attraction ticket sales area has been renovated, and the entire exterior of the sprawling resort is now being painted. Additional projects to the structure are being reviewed and planned.

The Dragon Hill Lodge went through extensive remodeling four years ago and the EdelweissLodge and Resort is working through a thoughtful preventive maintenance and sustainment program to keep the building looking new. Aligned with two of the major IMCOM priorities of investing in infrastructure and family resiliency programs, AFRC Resorts are committed to helping to create unforgettable vacation experiences for future generations of servicemembers, retirees and their families.

For more information about AFRC Resorts, please visit AFRCResorts.com

The Army serves as the Department of Defense (DoD) executive agent for Armed Forces Recreation Centers (AFRCs). These joint-service Morale, Welfare and Recreation (MWR) facilities provide quality, wholesome, affordable, family-oriented vacation recreation opportunities to servicemembers, their family members and other authorized patrons (including official travelers) of the total defense force. AFRCs continue to serve as force multipliers by supporting military readiness, retention and well-being objectives.

Photo credit : AFRC Resorts