Team Edwards celebrates completion of Tamarisk Plains

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Stacy Sanchez
  • 95th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
After 11 months of demolition and construction, Team Edwards celebrated the Tamarisk Plains completion during a ribbon-cutting ceremony here Jan. 22.

The Tamarisk Plains project replaced 67 concrete houses built in 1949 with 60 modern homes for company grade officers -- 24 two-bedroom and 36 three-bedroom homes.

The houses blend traditional California and Mediterranean styles with modern architectural features, said Joe Hunt, 95th Civil Engineer and Transportation Directorate housing project manager.

The new homes feature central air conditioning, interior and exterior bulk storage and double car garages. Families can choose from nine different floor plans with 10 elevation styles. 

"The homes you are seeing are a minor miracle," said James Judkins, director of the 95th Civil Engineer and Transportation Directorate. "We went through several challenges along the way, but we were able to overcome them to create some world-class homes. You don't do that without a lot of teamwork and love."

The home design's focus was on sustainability of Energy Star appliances, energy-efficient systems, compact florescent lighting and xeriscaped front yards.

Vince Fong, representative for 22nd District U.S.Rep. Kevin McCarthy, said it was a great day to see these facilities finally up on base.

"The congressman stands ready to help improve the quality of life for those who serve in uniform," Mr. Fong said. "We would love to continue this partnership with Edwards."

It meant a lot to come out and welcome the new homes into the Edwards inventory, said Col. Bryan Gallagher, 95th Air Base Wing commander.

"This isn't the last grand opening though," Colonel Gallagher said. "We have two more between now and next year."

Brig. Gen. David Eichhorn, Air Force Flight Test Center commander said the new homes are a big step in the quality of life for Edwards.

"We've gone from the old concrete bunkers to a home that is about 500 to 600 square feet larger than before," General Eichhorn said. "It's also a big step in the pride we have in our base."