Bloomington’s National Guard armory on the south side is over halfway through renovations.
Lt. Colonel Stanly Kersys said updates were necessary to meet current training, administrative and classroom needs. Most armories in the state were built in the '50s and '60s.
“It's definitely a little hindrance,” Kersys said. “Our facilities are outdated. They're not modern. We lack some of the efficiencies of the classrooms, of storage.”
Kersys said the updates include air conditioning, restrooms, classrooms, storage and ADA-compliant training areas. There will also be spaces dedicated to recruiting and retention.
“This will enhance the Indiana National Guard to complete their mission, and for this unit to be successful, be ready for anything that is called upon,” he said.
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The 87 soldiers that were stationed at the location, 3380 S. Walnut St., have been temporarily relocated to Camp Atterbury during construction, Kersys said. Renovations started last September and are expected to end in January.
The project cost approximately $9.6 million and is funded by the state and federal government. It’s part of a 20-year modernization plan to update armories across the state. The armory in Columbus and the readiness center in Hamilton County are also undergoing renovations.