Commissary continues construction, update of facilities

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Sarah Kusek
  • 2d Bomb Wing Public Affairs
BARKSDALE AIR FORCE BASE, La. --  Even though the new, state-of-the-art commissary has been open for business since September 2007, the facility is still undergoing construction. 

"Our produce department has really been challenged since our grand opening in September," said Mr. Robert Buras, commissary store director. "The distance from the old storage coolers to the new display cases is very long - about 250 yards. Each time the produce employees go to check on the product, it takes a considerable amount of time," he said. "The path to the new produce cases is also difficult because of the of the construction across the old sales floor." 

However, the situation is looking up because the new storage coolers are expected to be completed next week, according to Mr. Buras. 

The construction includes several walk-in coolers and a new produce receiving dock and delivery drive from the back of the commissary. 

Also in this phase of construction are new facilities for employees, including a break room and new restroom facilities. 

The next phase of construction consists of the old facility being demolished and the side parking lot being constructed; this is scheduled to begin March 1 with a completion date of April 30. 

Despite all the changes and construction, the commissary will continue to be fully operational and will not hinder the convenience of shopping on base. 

"Buying at your local commissary is both convenient and cost-effective," Mr. Buras said. "We will save you money, no less than 30 percent on a Markey base survey." 

For example, a shopping spree of milk, bread, ground beef, eggs and baby formula at the local grocery store costs 18.08 and costs 18.29 at a local mega mart. At the commissary, the same items only cost $16.23. 

"Our customers at times can find items cheaper in the retail sector, but cannot compete with the commissary on a one to two week full shopping experience," Mr. Buras explained. "With the addition of our full service bakery and deli, which includes a sushi bar, the commissary can now offer a full shipping experience." 

When you include the commissaries price and variety of fresh meat, why shop anywhere else?