CES looks to improve quality of playgrounds

  • Published
  • By Master Sgt. Matt Summers
  • 374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan --  Base civil engineers are stepping out to improve the appearance and condition of the 21 playgrounds under their care to improve the quality of life for the base's youngest residents. 

Officials from the 374th Civil Engineer Squadron recently reviewed routine maintenance contracts for base housing areas, to include playgrounds, based partly on feedback received by base residents, said Larry Lucas, 374th CES Asset Management Flight chief. 

"We're amending contracts to get rid of some of the gaps in service and we will correct it," he said. 

Mr. Lucas said routine pressure washing, repair of torn-up playground flooring, and touch-up painting are some of the areas of emphasis. He also said the squadron plans to replace all wooden playground equipment with metal and plastic equipment. 

"The goal is to provide a healthy and safe place for kids to play," he said. "We all have to be good stewards and pitch in to take care of what we have." 

Although the playgrounds are open areas available to all base residents, Mr. Lucas asks that residents call the housing flight if they witness misuse of the facilities. 

Vandalism and abuse should be reported directly to security forces personnel. 

"We welcome residents' feedback and we're aware of areas that need to be improved," he said.