A few brief remarks and a quick snip of the scissors brought the official end to months of construction at the Navy Exchange on Naval Air Station Whidbey Island’s Seaplane base last Thursday morning.
“This was the biggest construction project in the Navy Exchange Service Command in 2010,” said NEX general manager Lynn Moore. “It was 18 months of construction and six months of planning before that.”
There was a full house for the grand re-opening celebration, which began with an invocation from Cmdr. Mike Hackanson, chaplain, and the national anthem, which was performed by Grace Javier.
“We are extremely pleased to see so many guests here today,” said Joyce Napoletano, customer relations manager. “We’re humbled by those of you who have been so very patient throughout the construction.”
The $12 million project increased the size of the Exchange by 12,000 square feet — 9,000 square feet of retail space and 3,000 square feet of space by the receiving dock. The construction project included improvements to the entrances, restrooms, salon, optical center and the ID card lab. There are new floors and fixtures throughout.
“I think you’ll find the store much more pleasant throughout,” said Capt. Christopher Bower, Acting Commanding Navy Exchange Service Command, who added his thoughts regarding proposals in Washington, D.C. to make changes to the Exchange and Commissary systems.
“The Exchange is a valuable benefit that is currently under attack by some in Congress,” he said. “We are fighting diligently to preserve it.”
NAS Whidbey Island Executive Officer, Capt. Chris Phillips, praised contractors for keeping the integrity of the 1942 Seaplane hangar intact.
“It has taken exceptional teamwork, exceptional leadership and extreme commitment,” Phillips said. “And, the store remained in the black during all phases of construction.”
According to Bower, construction actually finished two months ahead of schedule. The only part of the store that wasn’t included in the remodeling was the food court. Moore said that is something that will be handled separately.
“This project started in January of last year with an award letter and ends today with this ceremony,” said Robert Hymel, of Triton-Marine Construction Corporation. “This is a great facility and I’m proud to be part of this project.”
All that was left after the speeches was the ribbon-cutting, which included Bowers, Moore, Phillips, district vice president Jean Bergquist and senior vice president Continental U.S. Gary King. A blue-and gold-adorned cake was served in the food court area immediately following the ribbon cutting. Prize drawings and special deals were offered to shoppers throughout the day.
“Thank you for your patience,” Bower said to the crowd of shoppers and employees. “I wish much success for this beautiful new store.”
