RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas –
Renovation of the Randolph movie theater at the Taj Mahal should be wrapped up in a matter of weeks.
With an estimated completion date sometime in July, a crew from Con-Cor/APM Joint Ventures is adding finishing touches to the estimated $800,000 project, said John Hamby, 12th Mission Support Group theater renovation project manager.
"They'll finish up some painting on the interior and install some LED (light-emitting diode) fixtures," he said. "They'll also replace the carpeting in the facility, but first they have to take the scaffolding down and abate some floor tile."
Mr. Hamby, a 12th MSG Civil Engineering Division architect, said light fixtures at the main entrance and in the foyer entrance will also be installed. Decorative grillwork for the ticket booth that was found in a room below the projection room will be cleaned and reinstalled and matching grillwork will be added to the concession area.
"It may be an original piece," he said, referring to the found grillwork.
Mr. Hamby said one of the most challenging aspects of the project has been the restoration of the ceiling, including the air-conditioning registers that were part of the original structure, which was built in the 1930s.
An addition to the theater is a handicapped-accessible restroom, he said. The theater will also feature a new roof with an improved drainage system.
"Water was leaking into the theater," Mr. Hamby said. "Hopefully this will prevent future water damage."
Among other improvements are repainted metal coverings on the chairs, re-plastered walls and new air-conditioning equipment.
Mr. Hamby said July 1 is the expected completion date, but that could change depending on site conditions.
"It may be extended if they run across something that wasn't anticipated," he said.
Civil engineer division officials say the renovated theater will provide a more pleasant environment for theater patrons and for commanders' calls and other gatherings.
"It will look much nicer," Mr. Hamby said. "Inside the facility they'll really see the difference."
Theater renovation is the first phase of an estimated $10 million project to improve the Taj Mahal. The next phase, set for 2010-11, will include making the headquarters building compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act, installing elevators and re-plastering work.