JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. -- Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst commanders and youth joined together to cut the ribbon on the new Dix Child Development Center on Nov. 17.
Community members celebrated the opening of the $6.3 million facility which was built just 3 miles away from the existing CDC on Tennessee Ave.
The Dix CDC was in need of an update because it was not originally designed for children. It was converted from a recreation center for enlisted servicemembers in 1978. Linda Severs, 87th Force Support Squadron Family Services Flight deputy chief, played a key role in getting this building project pushed through.
Severs said she had been lobbying for a new CDC since the mid 80s, but now, two years following the Congressional Base Realignment and Closure Act, the initiative has come to fruition. She compared this process to the game of "Candy Land," where a player could almost reach the end before being sent back to the beginning.
"I'm not one to take no for an answer, so I am delighted that we are finally celebrating this day," said Sever. "I really feel the children and their families of this community deserve it."
Guests enjoyed a tour of the new location following the ribbon cutting.
The new CDC was specifically designed with children in mind, incorporating modern design focused on safety. All child activity rooms, staff offices and staff areas are fully equipped and ready for use. The facility can house 180 children and is located near the Garden Terrace housing area and Fort Dix Elementary School, closer to the population it serves.
Col. John Wood, Joint Base MDL commander, served as a guest of honor and keynote speaker. He shared the implications of not just the project, "We are a military that cares for families; the fact you have so many senior leaders here for this celebration, speaks to that," said Wood. "This is a great moment for our base and the families of this community."