McConnell develops new, 162-acre, family recreational area

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Jessica Lockoski
  • 22nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. --  McConnell is transforming its former golf course, Twin Lakes, into a recreational park for its total-force members, their families and the retired military community. 

Within the next five years, three phases of construction will reclaim the 162-acre plot of land. Existing sites on the former course, such as the golf driving range, the putting green area, the fishing lakes and the family camping area, will be developed into three centralized activity centers, which will offer Team McConnell members a variety of recreational options. 

"Our goal is to create an area where we can offer the Team McConnell family various recreational activities and ensure we are able to relax and maintain balance in our busy lives," said Col. James Vechery, 22nd Air Refueling Wing commander. "It will be an area where people can unwind, exercise, and spend time with family and friends."

Phase one of the new recreational park's construction is scheduled for completion in April. Some of the initial developments will include are a jogging and cycling trail, a family park with a playground and fire pits, several picnic pavilions, an all-terrain-vehicle track, a disk golf course and a skeet shooting range. 

Phases two and three will bring a paintball area, an amphitheater, picnic shelters and additional lakes. Contractors and 22nd Civil Engineer Squadron members plan to finish phases two and three in the beginning of 2014. 

In October, the 22nd Air Refueling Wing commander surveyed Team McConnell members to see how people thought the former golf course land could be best used.

More than 500 Active Duty, Guard and Reserve, dependents, retirees and Department of Defense employees weighed in and asked for a recreational area that could benefit the entire Team McConnell family, from youngest military child to the oldest retiree. 

"Having several different recreational opportunities offers more popular activities for a wider range of community members - total force families, single Airmen, retirees and their guests," said Col. Mark White, Mission Support Group commander. "It also encourages our Airmen to participate in safe and healthy programs that build morale, encourage fitness, foster team spirit and emphasize family activity."

The overall cost of the project is still being calculated, but the initial estimate for phase one is more than $200,000, a price the base commander feels is well worth paying to get the project underway.

"Simply put, we are focused on action because you don't become the air refueling center of excellence by standing still," said Colonel Vechery. "Our Airmen and their families deserve quality recreational facilities, and we intend to provide them swiftly." 

A jogging and cycling path will be one of the first additions to the new recreation area, and it was one of the top ten items requested by survey takers. This 1.5 mile, multisport trail will connect existing golf cart paths and loop together the three planned activity centers. 

McConnell members are encouraged to continue bringing their ideas forward.

"I would like us all to take ownership in this project. This is our wing and our base," said Colonel Vechery. "We've intentionally designed this as a hands-on project, and we will be looking for volunteers to help us design and construct the various venues throughout the winter."

22nd Force Support Squadron, is currently standing up teams from organizations across the base to help outline timing goals and keep construction on track.

McConnell members who are interested in assisting with the golf course reutilization project should call Ms. Ida Simpkins, 22nd Force Support Squadron deputy commander at 759-4314.