Attachment_08_-_AFSOC_Facility_Excellence_Guide_-_2008.pdf

Facility Excellence Guide

Attachment 8 FA4855-18-R-0003

Commander’s Intent

While the Command’s wing and group commanders know their facilities and mission better than anyone and have a personal vision for what improvements are needed on their watch and beyond, the AFSOC Commander has asked commanders, facility managers and engineers at every level to stay engaged and “set the bar high” when it come to their installation’s base comprehensive plan (BCP) or, as in the case of our special operations groups, their area development plan (ADP).

Lt Gen Wurster realizes that, while everyone has individual tastes with respect to style, color and materials, the urge to select faddish design themes and unusual or eclectic decors must be tempered by the current fi scal reality and the fact that we are a command that is engaged in combat. Still realizing the life cycle of our facilities is greater than 50 years, it is critical that we stay within Command standards.

Indeed, while everyone recognizes that limited funding can make it diffi cult to execute “quantum leap” improvements in facilities, it remains as important as ever that we “attack the low hanging fruit” and strive to make a difference in assuring our Airmen have the world class facilities they deserve.

As Lt General Wurster has said, “we see few limits to what we can accomplish in AFSOC over the next decade”. To that end, I ask for the support of the facility professionals in AFSOC and the contractor community that supports AFSOC to focus their talents to these standards in order to assure AFSOC effectively is able to both “Employ the Force” and “Build the Future Force”.

STEVEN E. HOARN, Colonel, USAF Director, Installations and Mission Support

Contents

1 Executive Summary 2 2 Installation Excellence 5

2.1 How to Use This Guide 6

2.2 General Planning 7

2.3 Installation Compatibility 8

2.4 Sustainable / Adaptable Facilities 10

3 Visual District Areas 16

3.1 Installation Access 18

3.2 Operations 22

3.3 Maintenance and Logistics 24

3.4 Mission Support 26

3.5 Medical 32

3.6 Housing and Dormitories 33

PART 4. Guidelines 39

4.1 Safety 40

4.2 Security 41

4.3 Streetscapes 44

4.4 Exteriors 48

4.5 Interiors 51

4.6 Furnishings 53

4.7 Lighting 54

4.8 Signage 55

4.9 Energy and Water Conservation 58

PART 5. Facility Managers 60 PART 6. Awards Program 62 PART 7. Construction Considerations 63 PART 8. Checklists 64 PART 9. References 69

Executive Summary

The Air Force Special Operations Command (AFSOC) is one of nine major Air Force commands, and the Air Force component of the United States Special Operations Command (USSOCOM).

AFSOC was established at Hurlburt Field, Florida on 22 May 1990. The command focuses on special operations and unconventional warfare and can trace its lineage back to World War II and the 1st Air Commando Group. The command took part in the Korean War under the title of “Air Resupply and Communication Squadrons.” However, it was in Vietnam where the command’s numbers greatly expanded; at one point, 19 Air Commando Squadrons supported the war in Southeast Asia.

Today, AFSOC provides Air Force special operations for worldwide deployment and assignment to regional unifi ed commands. On 20 June 2006, the Department of Defense announced AFSOC would accept ownership of Cannon Air Force Base and in August 2007 the Environmental Impact Statement was completed and a Record of Design was signed by SAF/ IE, allowing AFSOC to stand-up the 27 Special Operations Wing at Cannon AFB on 1 October 2007. The AFSOC expansion to Cannon provides the Command a western U.S. base to enhance support for operations worldwide.

1 Investment in quality recruitment, motivation and installations promotes retention of key personnel.

AFSOC’s mission is to serve as America’s specialized air power organization, capable of delivering special operations power any time, any where. The command’s forces are organized under two active-duty wings; one reserve wing;

one National Guard wing; two overseas groups;

and several direct reporting units.

Installation Excellence encompasses all aspects of AFSOC life – where we work, live, relax and play. Our installations provide the foundation for supporting our personnel and families in executing the AFSOC mission. They provide a home for our families and serve as a basis for mission readiness.

Investment in these quality installations promotes recruitment, motivation and retention of key personnel to support our mission. Excellence in the design, construction and maintenance of our installations has a direct correlation to our continued success. This Installation Excellence Guide is intended to support mission requirements by providing quality facilities that encourage pride and professionalism.

Architectural features should be compatible in function, mass, shape, color and texture.

Installation Excellence2

This Installation Guide serves as a reference document to be used by all levels of the AFSOC organization. It contains command policy and guidelines for installation excellence. The guide is intended as a planning aid and contains information necessary for developing and improving AFSOC installations. It is important that AFSOC Wing and Unit Commanders as well as all members of AFSOC recognize, understand and support the standards, policies and guidelines in this guide. Individual Commanders will implement the concepts of this guide specifi cally for their installation and their facilities.

Hurlburt Field and Cannon AFB will achieve facility excellence through attention to the long-range vision regarding how the installation should look and function in the future.

This guide should be used to focus project planning efforts in accordance with the AFSOC facility vision. It is divided into fi ve main components:

Installation Excellence, Visual District Areas, Guidelines, Facility Managers and References.

Architectural Compatibility will provide guidance on what a model facility looks like for both the sub-tropic area of the Gulf States region, as well as the climate of the arid southwest region. The Design Guidelines describe concepts and information pertaining to site, landscaping, building exterior and interior components, security and sustainable concepts, all designed in concert with the AFSOC Facility Excellence Vision. The Reference Section provides a quick list of key information related to AFSOC facility excellence.

Each base should use this guide as a resource for all facilities, including tenant funded facilities on an AFSOC installation.

2.1 How to Use This Guide

Command Policy Regardless of use, all facilities on the installation must be effi cient, healthy, safe and comfortable places to work, live and play. Budget allocations determine the rate we can add and revitalize facilities and infrastructure to ensure the success of our mission and the well-being of our people.

To make development decisions predictable, fair and cost effective, use the “Principles of Smart Growth” during planning; encourage collaboration between all installation stakeholders during planning sessions; comply with compatibility guidelines to foster a strong sense of place for each installation; and ensure the General Plan and component plans are current, realistic and

2.2 General Planning

comprehensive. Provide quality housing and create pedestrian friendly districts. Preserve open space, natural beauty and critical environmental areas. Provide a variety of transportation choices such as walking, biking, running and installation transportation options. Reuse existing infrastructure, facilities and raw materials to the maximum extent possible. And fi nally, take advantage of compact building designs to minimize waste. Together, these plans should defi ne a vision for the future of the installation.

Our facilities must refl ect our standards of excellence -- high quality planning, design, construction and maintenance. They should refl ect pride in our organization, our mission and ourselves.

AFSOC policy incorporates sustainable concepts during planning, programming and design of all facilities including renovations and additions to existing facilities. Incorporate durable, low maintenance materials and high effi ciency water and energy systems in the designs. Use natural or integral color materials compatible and consistent with the architectural theme and color scheme of the installation.

All new projects on AFSOC installations shall comply with installation specifi c Architectural

Compatibility Guides.

2.3 Installation Compatibility

Gulf Coast Region A mix of Spanish, French, English and Caribbean cultures are present in the coastal area. While these elements bring diversity to the region, there are common themes in much of the architecture.

Structures are designed to withstand high winds from frequent hurricanes. Most structures are one or two-story with side and rear wings; pavilions;

and multiple roof planes. Exterior materials include durable brown brick and block with intricate white/ beige stucco detailing to accentuate openings and entrance areas. Anodized bronze standing seam metal roofs, doors, windows and exterior light fi xtures provide a consistent appearance throughout the installation. Doors and windows are symmetrical, often with multi-paned windows.

Consistent detailing is a trademark of this region, from large scale components to smaller building details such as window awnings and entry features.

Southwest Region The style of Southwest Architecture developed from the Native American and Hispanic traditions.

Southwest architectural design originated from the two cultures’ ideas for dealing with a harsh environment. The extremes of heat and cold called for protection from the sun in the summer and protection from winds in the winter. These extremes led to consistent one and two story designs with high mass walls. Religion also had a big impact on Southwest architecture which has taken its cues from early Spanish missions. Elements of Southwest architecture include arched entry porches, low-pitched red tile roofs, stucco walls, white sandstone details and rounded windows and doors. Exterior materials include multi-colored brown brick, balconies with elaborate grillwork and decorative tiles around doorways and windows.

The natural resources we depend on for energy and our survival are fi nite and therefore vitally important. Conservation and protection of all natural resources is essential. The Air Force Sustainable Design and Development (SDD) Policy, dated 31-Jul-07, reinforces the importance of sustainable development concepts in the planning, design, construction and operation of facilities and infrastructure. The goal is to: reduce the environmental impact and total ownership cost of facilities; improve energy effi ciency and water conservation; and provide safe, healthy and productive built environments. To this end, and consistent with the requirements of the Energy Policy Act of 2005 (EPAct05) and Executive Order 13423, all Air Force construction projects, regardless of scope or funding source, shall endeavor to use the United States Green Building Council’s (USGBC) Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating Systems as their self-assessment metric.

The key to the success of this policy is setting sustainable development goals early in the planning, programming and budgeting process and ensuring these goals are attained during design and construction.

2.4 Sustainable / Adaptable Facilities

LEED

Beginning in FY09, 100% of each MAJCOM’s MILCON vertical construction projects, with climate control, shall be designed so that it is capable of achieving the 33 to 38 LEED points required for Silver certifi cation. This is not an option. Sustainable features can not be eliminated to save scope or cut cost. To accomplish this goal, the Air Force will document SDD, EPAct05, and E013423 costs on the DD Form 1391, with a separate line item under primary facility costs identifi ed as “SDD & EPAct05”, beginning with the FY09 MILCON program. These costs will be programmed at 2% of the primary facility cost unless specifi c detailed costs are determined.

When the costs exceed 2%, an explanation will be provided in block 10 of the 1391.

Process Implementation shall be monitored and documented by a LEED accredited professional.

At a minimum, this will occur at the programming/ customer concept document, design charrette, fi nal design and benefi cial occupancy phases of all projects. Any decisions based on cost constraints leading to deletion of sustainable concepts, or certifi cation of the project, shall be included in the documentation. The sustainable development implementation and validation process shall continue throughout the life of the facility.

Site Selection Creating sustainable buildings starts with proper site selection. The location of a building affects a wide range of environmental factors such as security and accessibility; energy consumed for transportation; energy consumed for heating and cooling; impact on local ecosystems; and manner in which existing structures and infrastructures are used. Wherever possible, locate buildings in areas of existing development and consider renovating existing buildings and historic properties.

Landscaping Maximize xeriscaping where possible. Select low maintenance plants that are disease and insect resistant. Temporary irrigation may be used for the establishment of plants. Minimize the use of fertilizers and pesticides. Preserve existing landscaping where possible. Provide ground cover and limit turf areas and areas requiring manual trimming. Use curbs, edging and walkways to defi ne planting areas.

Energy Consumption A building should rely on a mixture of conservation, passive design measures and fossil fuels for its operation. It should meet or exceed applicable energy performance standards. A sustainable building should be designed to take into account the energy and environmental impacts of operating and maintaining the building. Designers shall be encouraged to specify materials and systems that reduce the need for maintenance, and/or require less water, energy and toxic chemicals and cleaners to maintain.

Reduce heating and cooling loads through developed passive designs and conservation practices. Consider the building orientation when sizing and specifying windows. Locate landscape elements with solar geometry and building load requirements in mind. Use high-performance building envelopes to minimize heat gain and loss based on long-term product data.

Specify energy effi cient HVAC and lighting systems. Consider the use of energy recovery systems that pre-heat or pre-cool incoming ventilated air. Use lighting systems that consume less than one watt per square foot for ambient lighting.

In general compliance with the HQ AFSOC

Commander’s Policy for Energy Conservation and any applicable installation standards should be incorporated into the planning and/or design for all projects.

Indoor Environmental Quality The indoor environmental quality of a building has a signifi cant impact on occupant health, comfort and productivity. Among other attributes, a sustainable building should maximize day lighting, provide appropriate ventilation and moisture control. Avoid the use of materials with high-VOC emissions.

Visual District Areas 3

Visual Districts are areas of the installation where design components should have a unifying and consistent use and scale. Each of the visual districts has a defi ned sense of continuity based on the function, form, scale, color, texture and massing of the structures within that district.

The following sections describe each visual district, and begin to illustrate the desired design features for each district. For each district, appropriate design considerations will be established.

Main gates and entryways create lasting fi rst impressions of the quality of our installations.

The pride and professionalism of the Command is conveyed through these important points of access. Main arrival points to the installation must impart a commitment to installation excellence.

Entrances, gates, visitor centers and airfi eld facilities must be designed and constructed to project a strong identity for each installation.

Carefully consider the approach and arrival points at each installation and ensure they project an image of excellence.

Base Entrances Entrances serve as the specifi c entry point for all personnel, visitors and deliveries. Carefully consider the arrival and departure to and from installations as well as the approaches from adjoining communities.

The Air Force Installation Entry Control Facilities Design Guide contains specifi c design guidance.

Force protection will have primary consideration at all installation entrances. Give the departure side equal attention.

Provide for pedestrian and bicycle access.

Landscaping should lend an attractive, professional image and not obstruct visibility for security purposes. Lighting should enhance security and visibility, but not blind drivers.

Vehicular traffi c fl ow through, around and between base entrance guardhouses and the visitor reception center should be uncomplicated and restricted to the entrance area.

3.1 Installation Access

Work with local offi cials in planning off-base development near the entrances. Focus on concepts that enhance security and limit congestion while improving the appearance of the installation.

Establish routes from base entrances to and from typical destination facilities such as the fl ight line district, Base Exchange, commissary, billeting offi ce, etc. Ensure the departure routes are equally considered from these destinations.

Outdoor spaces should enhance and emphasize the installation and facilities. Feature memorials, ceremonial plazas and static displays as supporting elements. Provide outdoor spaces for transportation pathways, meeting places and resting places. Provide an appropriate scale of landscaping, furnishings and materials specifi c to the function of each outdoor space.

All facilities in the Installation Access District shall be maintained on a scheduled basis. Keep sites and facilities clear of clutter, unnecessary signage and unnecessary equipment. Involve installation maintenance personnel in the planning and design of facilities to ensure sustainable and maintenance factors are considered early in the design process. Ensure commissioning processes are part of all design and construction efforts. Include prefunctional and functional testing; equipment startup; verifi cation of design intent; proper as-built development; operations and maintenance manuals; training; and facility turnover.

Gates The purpose of the gate is to prevent unauthorized access and maximize vehicular traffi c fl ow.

Security, safety, capacity and image are the main priorities to consider. Designs should be simple and sturdy. Provide signage for entrance side as well as the departure side. Retractable bollards shall be installed at the entrance and departure side.

Guardhouses Guardhouses should be compatible with adjacent facilities and be of permanent construction, preferably masonry or concrete. Provide adequate lighting and install heating and air conditioning at both Hurlburt Field and Cannon AFB. An integral restroom is desirable. Entrance guardhouses should be set well back from public roadways to allow stacking of vehicles entering and leaving the installation. Guardhouses should be sited on an island between opposing lanes of traffi c and should provide access to traffi c lanes in both directions. Provide a means for identifi cation of on-duty security personnel (name and hometown).

Visitor Centers General guidance for base entries is provided in Military Traffi c Management Command’s Traffi c Engineering for Better Gates. Visitor Centers are located at the main installation entrance. The design should be compatible with the guardhouse. The Air Force Entry Control Facility design guide should be followed for traffi c circulation requirements. A customer service counter, restrooms and comfortable waiting area are key components of the center.

Traffi c Flow Curb cuts for vehicle turnarounds should be provided in front and in back of the guardhouse at the main gate. This allows the fi rst-time visitor to access the visitor reception center before or after making contact with security personnel at the guardhouse. If base access is not desired or authorized, the traffi c lane design should allow for easy exit. If access is desired and authorized, the fl ow from the visitor reception center should allow for an easy turn into traffi c and back through the gatehouse checkpoint with a displayed visitor’s pass. All commercial vehicle inspection facilities should be built and maintained at other than the main gates. Wherever possible, commercial vehicle inspections should be segregated at a gate dedicated to this function/free of other traffi c fl ow.

Base Operations and Passenger Terminal Base Operations and passenger terminals are important entrance points into the installation.

Provide visual barriers between terminal and industrial areas. Provide a highly visible route for arriving and departing passengers.

The Operations District is the work center of the base. The consistent function of facilities in this district provides better opportunities for architectural compatibility. When renovating or designing new facilities in this district, elements such as roof pitch, downspouts, windows, signage, texture and colors should be consistent with the surrounding buildings. As the only exception in this district, the headquarters complex creates a commanding focal point with its unique style.

Administrative Areas Administrative facilities usually contain offi ces, conference rooms and command centers.

Provide consistently detailed buildings that support the importance of the facility. Ensure the main entrance of the facility is carefully designed and detailed. The layout of these facilities should consider views, energy conservation, ease of access and circulation.

Design the facility main entrance to clearly identify the preferred approach to the facility. Comply with force protection requirements for standoff distances while maintaining a pleasant pedestrian focus throughout the site. An area for pick-up and drop-off of visitors should be considered where appropriate. Ensure that vehicular and pedestrian traffi c is separated. Allow for bike access.

3.2 Operations

Education / Training Training facilities should be well lit and spacious to create environments that are conducive to learning. Select tables, chairs and desks that are comfortable, durable and coordinated with the interior décor of the facility. Provide for acoustical control requirements between adjacent areas.

Include all audio visual equipment and ensure all requirements are coordinated with the installation communications offi ce. Provide training spaces comparable to university classroom settings.

Ensure appropriate location of these facilities to housing and mission districts.

3.3 Maintenance and Logistics

Command Policy Maintenance and Logistics facilities house functions supporting the primary mission of AFSOC. Excellent Maintenance and Logistics facilities are required to provide excellent services.

Work centers must be effi ciently confi gured, professionally maintained and conducive to providing excellent support. Plan confi guration should be driven by function. Material selection should be driven by durability.

Flight Line and Industrial Areas The Flight Line District includes aircraft storage, maintenance facilities and fl ight line administrative facilities. This district has a functional role characterized predominantly by large hangars and warehouse buildings.

Renovations and new construction in this district should ensure consistency of details such as roof pitch, downspouts, fenestration, signage, texture and colors with surrounding buildings. Low slope shed or gable standing seam metal roofs matching installation standards are preferred.

Excellent mission support facilities deliver excellent services. Facilities that are effi ciently confi gured and professionally maintained are conducive to excellent support. Mission support buildings help our community achieve the overall mission by providing a safe and comfortable environment in which to work. Mission support facilities should be easy to get to and adjacent to the mission facilities they support. Facilities should be sited to promote pedestrian circulation and minimize the need to drive between activities.

Personnel Support Dining facilities should be comparable with commercial cafeterias. A designer with specifi c kitchen and dining facility experience is required.

Locate the dining facilities close to mission support districts as well as the housing district.

Specify commercial grade equipment and ensure the design considers peak period lines.

3.4 Mission Support

Provide a lobby for general patron conversation and gathering. A coat room and restroom will be located off the main lobby. A clear, unobstructed and effi cient circulation path is required. The main dining area shall have a sense of openness and shall be separated from the food preparation and serving areas. Consider outside dining areas and multi-use functional areas that allow for fl exibility.

Baffl e serving line noise. Provide out-of-site alcoves for bus carts and microwaves. Lighting levels shall provide for a warm and inviting atmosphere. Use daylighting to limit the need for electric lighting and enhance the dining area atmosphere. Natural spectrum lamps are required to maintain the natural color of food.

Avoid fl uorescent lighting. Public and private areas shall be accommodated. Use only neutral colors to allow for future changes. Introduce color through the use of furnishings, plants and art work.

Base religious facilities must refl ect our genuine concern and commitment to our people and families. The interior design package for religious facilities should convey a tranquil and spiritual environment serving all faiths. This can be achieved through the use of coordinated wall coverings, furnishings, fl oor coverings and accessories.

Provide administrative areas for staff to conduct day-to-day duties and private counseling. Include multi-purpose rooms that can serve as training areas. Install a kitchen with ample storage and workspace. Provide a high-quality public address system; full lighting control; and furnishings that are comfortable, attractive and professional. A nursery is provided in all religious facilities so parents may worship together. Provide a kitchen with ample work space and storage. Provide classrooms to support religious education programs.

Follow a comprehensive interior design plan for the chapel. The plan should include coordinated wall coverings, furnishings, fl oor coverings and accessories. The design should have universal appeal and should avoid permanent fi xtures that are associated only with a specifi c denomination or belief.

Indoor Recreation Fitness Centers should be designed as multi-purpose facilities capable of accommodating a full range of fi tness activities. Entry foyers should provide furniture for waiting and resting.

Sport courts should have adequate bleachers and viewing areas. Locker rooms should be well ventilated. Provide an adequate numbers of lockers, designed with materials that are easily cleaned.

Provide spacious change areas with wide benches and adequate lockers. Women’s change areas should provide well-lighted, large mirrors and vanities with extra electrical outlets.

Separate spas, steam rooms and saunas for men and women should be located near change room areas. Provide modern restroom and shower facilities. Privacy curtains or doors for showers and drying areas are encouraged.

Wall and fl oor coverings should be selected for safety, functionality, durability, appearance and sound control. Walkways and workout stations should be well defi ned to provide suffi cient space for training.

Offer a full variety of fi tness equipment with rooms for specialized cardiovascular equipment, aerobics and weights. Provide a variety of equipment tailored for all patrons (such as small weights). A storage area for weights, separate from traffi c and workout areas, should be provided.

Air Force bowling centers should be comparable to commercial facilities. Functional offi ces, centralized sales and pro shop, an enclosed video arcade, restrooms, a snack bar and separate locker rooms should be available. Automatic scoring machines are recommended.

Design clubs that refl ect each installation’s population. Ensure the main entrance and exterior appearances are attractive and professionally landscaped. Create inviting foyers with tastefully selected accessories, lighting and furnishings.

Provide attractive lounges, dining areas, cashier cage, barber shop, coat room, telephone areas and game room. Kitchen equipment should be commercial quality.

Today’s Air Force shopping facilities must compete with the changing and dynamic commercial interests off base. As such, excellent facilities are extremely important to the success of AAFES

Base Exchange and DeCA’s Commissaries, shoppettes, theatres, banking services, barber shops and hair salons. Base facilities must not only provide good value, but a variety of products in an exciting, clean and pleasant atmosphere.

These facilities work better if grouped together.

All tenant facilities shall follow the installation compatibility guidelines and facility excellence guidelines. Although these facilities are commercial by nature, they should limit the use of advertising signs and banners affi xed to facilities are prohibited. Free standing temporary signs announcing a special event or sale can be allowed but should be used with desecration. Case lot sales should be kept to the facility grounds and should be neat and organized.

Outdoor Recreation Locate outdoor recreational facilities near the population they serve. Place bleachers for football, soccer and softball fi elds on concrete pads to control erosion, eliminate settling and mitigate weed growth. Pads also improve litter and insect control. Provide sizable, durable and compatible refuse and recycling receptacles.

Athletic fi elds provide recreational opportunities where people can interact competitively, safely and enjoyably. Provide permanent and modern restroom facilities. Include attractive, clean and functional snack bar facilities. Mount fi eld lights on storm-resistant poles and run all utilities underground. Follow AT/FP set back requirements for the placement of bleachers, etc.

Parking areas are developed using a shared-use plan with adjacent facilities with different operating hours such as the bank and theater.

Provide dedicated employee parking with limited reserved spaces. Required handicapped spaces shall be provided without exception. Encourage pedestrian and bike travel through the use of sidewalks, pathways and adjacencies to the housing district.

Pick up and drop off areas are required for each of these facilities.

Provide fun, creative and attractive spaces for users to enjoy. Stress safety by using impact-absorbing materials. Provide a variety of play spaces and adequate seating. Avoid dissimilar and multi-colored materials. Provide attractive landscaping, as well as restroom facilities and drinking fountains.

Picnic areas provide space for relaxation. They should be easily accessible from parking areas and provide good shelter. Garbage containers should be provided.

Golf courses should be well maintained and comparable to public facilities. The clubhouse should have a pro shop, separate restrooms and locker rooms. Tastefully designed lounge, snack bar, dining and patio areas should be provided.

Adequate storage for golf carts and golf club bags should be available. Waste cans, ball cleaners and durable, attractive and sheltered benches should be located at every third tee box.

The course should take advantage of and accent its natural features. Course maintenance may be improved by using underground sprinkler systems as well as incorporating the use of “gray water” to conserve potable water in arid areas.

All signage for outdoor recreation should be minimized but tastefully blended-in to the environment vice Air Force signage elsewhere on the installation.

Medical facilities must inspire patient and customer confi dence in the health delivery system. Facilities must project the highest professional appearance from the public’s initial contact at entrances, lobbies and reception to private consultation rooms, x-ray rooms and other private areas. Our customers and their families must feel they are receiving the best medical care available. Materials must be selected for durability as well as ease in cleaning

Medical Centers Medical facilities must provide customers and visitors a sense of direction, whether arriving by vehicle or on foot. Reception and waiting lounges should be easily recognized, comfortable and close to the department where service is provided.

They should provide reading and information centers. Comfortable seating should be arranged so as not to give patients the feeling of a long

3.5 Medical

waiting period. No seating will be provided in hallways or spaces with designated activities.

Medical treatment areas where diagnostic or therapeutic care is given should have the appropriate medical equipment and mechanical and electrical systems to effi ciently support them.

Create an atmosphere where patient privacy and doctor-patient confi dence is instilled.

Patient nursing rooms are usually for patient recovery after intense treatment in other areas of the medical center. Provide an appropriate space for the medical staff who will be providing care and monitoring patients. Natural light and a residential atmosphere help in the recovery process.

AFSOC housing must exemplify our quality-of-life philosophy by providing attractive, secure and comfortable places for our military members to live and raise families. Most military members consider housing the top quality-of-life benefi t second only to the geographic location. Good housing improves morale and favorably affects job performance and retention. Housing and dormitory areas should have access to transportation, commuting patterns, services and education. Mitigate the environmental costs of auto-dependent development, by using existing infrastructure resources more effi ciently and generating a strong foundation of support for neighborhood transit stops, commercial centers and other services. Dormitories should be a comfortable, permanent home for our unaccompanied members. Temporary Lodging Facilities and Visiting Quarters must meet the standards of the Air Force Lodging Program to provide quality temporary lodging.

3.6 Housing and Dormitories

Family Housing AFSOC neighborhoods shall have quality, energy-effi cient, sustainable, low-maintenance housing area that supports the needs of the military family and reinforces the development of a strong sense of community. Recreational opportunities, access to community facilities, adequate parking and landscaping are all components of a successful neighborhood. The installation housing should be comparable to well-developed, off-base housing areas of the same income level. Family housing typically consists of one- and two-story homes, either single family residences or duplexes.

The design of family housing shall create a pedestrian friendly environment that encourages social interaction. The boundaries to these neighborhoods shall be clearly defi ned places with character.

Mass, scale, orientation and shape are key elements in new construction of housing. Family housing design shall strive to achieve a human scale to the neighborhood that make walking and biking more attractive forms of transportation. Site development and landscape standards should be developed and enforced for elements such as privacy fencing, bus shelters and playground equipment. Visual screening between the housing district and other districts should be provided through the use of landscaping elements. The design of housing areas should diminish the importance of the automobile; and encourage walkways, paths, playgrounds and neighborhood parks. Low roof eaves, reduced setbacks and emphasis on pedestrian front entrances are desired. Key design components are storage, porches, adequate kitchen layout and adequate bathroom size and fi xtures.

Materials that reduce overall maintenance requirements shall be used in the housing areas.

A periodic maintenance program should be established to keep siding, trim, roofs, gutters, downspouts, appliances and utility systems well maintained.

The kitchen layout shall include an effi ciently arranged work triangle. Generous cabinet space shall be provided. Provide direct access to the dining area and carport/garage.

Circulation patterns shall allow for various furniture arrangements by occupants. Ample closet and storage space are required. Acoustical isolation between units and between high noise areas such as the laundry room is essential. Provide a distinct entrance foyer.

A private patio, screened or fenced, with adjoining storage is necessary. Outside outlets shall be included at the front and back of each unit. One garage or covered parking space is required per unit. Thermal windows and doors are required for all conditioned spaces.

Refer to the following guides for information regarding the planning, programming, design and construction of both United States Air Force owned and privatized family housing: Design:

Family Housing (UFC 4-711-01); Family Housing Planning, Programming, Design and Construction (AFI 32-6002); General Offi cer Quarters (AFI 32- 6003); Privatized Family Housing (AFI 32-6007);

and the Air Force Family Housing Guide.

Permanent Party Dorms Dormitories are permanent residences for our unaccompanied members, and should provide a comfortable home. Dormitories, new or renovated, will provide facilities with shared kitchen, laundry, living room, private bedroom, bath and closet.

Rooms will have exterior entrances. Dormitories should be well lit and designed with safety at the forefront. Include the appropriate amenities necessary to create a neighborhood. These facilities should be within walking distance of community support facilities and mission facilities.

Defi ne main entrances with covered exterior landings and proper lighting. Identify facilities with professionally manufactured signs conforming to AFSOC sign requirements.

Site amenities include landscape areas with covered patios and adjacent barbecue grills. Separate dormitory modules should be interconnected with sidewalks and provide covered bicycle and motorcycle parking.

Create attractive and inviting dayrooms through the use of carefully selected room fi nishes and accessories such as artwork and plants to enhance the décor.

Bedrooms should have a full-length mirror, telephone jack and central TV antenna or cable connections. Provide built-in closets, window screens, smoke and heat detectors and individual room temperature control. Create inviting rooms with vanity sinks, refrigerators, hardwood furniture, lined drapes and a combination of direct and indirect lighting.

Use appropriate interior fi nishes and colors. Use carpet in rooms and interior hallways. Select commercial quality materials and furnishings that are durable and maintainable. Refi nish existing interior concrete block walls with wall covering over gypsum board furring. Provide appropriately decorated laundry rooms with sorting counters and hanger rods. Provide conveniently located recycling areas to promote the Air Force solid waste reduction program.

Additional Air Force dormitory guidelines can be found in the Air Force Policy Design Guide for

Enlisted Dormitories.

Temporary Lodging Facilities Quality apartment-style living quarters, housing families between assignments, should have living and dining areas separated from bedrooms and where possible a separate sleeping area for children. Provide typical kitchen appliances including a microwave. A color television, an iron and ironing board are also essential. Include appropriately decorated laundry rooms with sorting counters, hanger rods and locking doors.

Provide adjacent parking areas to accommodate large recreational vehicles, boats and trailers.

Ensure convenient loading and unloading of personal items at the main entrance or near rooms.

Visiting Quarters Provide a full-length mirror, telephone jack, computer jack and central TV antenna or cable connections. Provide built-in closets, window screens, smoke and fi re detectors and individual room temperature control. Make rooms inviting with vanity sinks, refrigerators, hardwood furniture, lined drapes and a mix of direct and indirect lighting. Use appropriate interior fi nishes and colors. Provide carpet squares in rooms and interior hallways. Select commercial quality materials and furnishings that are durable and maintainable. Refi nish existing interior concrete block walls with wall covering over gypsum board furring.

Quality doesn’t just happen.

Inspiration, beauty and function combined with planning and hard work produce that result.

Guidelines 4 AFSOC facilities refl ect the highest professional standards of planning, design, construction, op-eration and maintenance. All facilities, regardless of their use, must be effi cient, healthy, safe and comfortable places for our people to work, live and play. Facility investment must be economi-cal and prudent to avoid the appearance of “gold-plating” or waste. Programming of new MILCON facilities can be planned more effectively through the use of the MILCON Checklist provided in Part

8. Designs for new construction and renovation will incorporate low-maintenance or integrally col-ored materials and economical construction tech-niques without compromising a high quality, ar-chitecturally pleasing, professional appearance.

Ensure the General Plan and component plans are current and realistic. Use them to guide your investment in facilities. AFSOC Tenants shall com-ply with host architectural themes and standards for exterior and interior facility designs. Facilities shall be designed to meet the most stringent re-quirements outlined in the most current version of the International Building Code (IBC) and the Life

Safety Code (NFPA 101).

4.1 Safety

Command Policy Safety must be an essential part of the planning and design process. Planning measures to reduce our vulnerability or the perception of vulnerability upfront goes a long way toward protecting our most valuable asset – the highly skilled individuals critical to the success of our mission. Ensure proper lighting in the designs.

Avoid creating unsafe concealed areas.

Fire prevention is a concern for all. Only fi re rated materials shall be used. The Engineering Standards, Uniform Facility Criteria 3-600-01, and National Fire Protection Agency Manuals contain information pertaining to fi re rated materials.

AFSOC directors will ensure that proper channels are used when renovating or modifying any part of their facility to include doors, walls and systems furniture. Per AFPAM 32-1125v1, the AF Form 332 is used to request and approve all work in an Air Force facility. All requests to renovate, modify or add onto a facility must be submitted to Civil Engineering Customer Service and signed by the facility manager or commander. Requests for systems furniture must also be submitted on an AF Form 332. No work shall start until an approved signed copy of AF Form 332 is on fi le in the facility manager’s book.

4.2 Security

Command Policy Security measures have an enormous impact on the visual aesthetics of the base. Safety measures should be integral to the design.

Barriers and bollards should be consistent with the architectural theme of the base and should be of like materials, fi nishes and detailing.

Force Protection Force protection is an essential aspect of today’s facility designs. An objective approach that precludes the wholesale hardening of facilities or bases is required. Planners, designers and builders work with base security measures to provide a sound approach to keep our members and facilities safe. Threats may come from hidden explosives, chemical or biological agents, direct physical harm or psychological pressure.

New construction should integrate protection and security features into the master plans, site selections and base development. New designs will comply with requirements based on risk assessments. To ensure an aesthetically pleasing visual appearance, incorporate required force protection and security designs into landscape features. Comply with the minimum standards established in the current DoD Minimum Antiterrorism Standards for Buildings publication (UFC 4-010-01) and DoD Minimum Antiterrorism Standoff Distances for Buildings (UFC 4-010-02).

Standoff distance, or the distance maintained between an inhabited structure and the potential location for an explosives detonation is a key component of force protection to reduce the blast effects on the structure.

When standoff distance is met, force protection standards are easily incorporated into the project without being costly or obtrusive. As standoff distance decreases, force protection requirements and cost increase. When standoff distance cannot be met, blend the force protection requirements into the design in as inconspicuous a manner as possible avoiding a massive or prison-like appearance.

Building perimeter security should be integrated into an attractive system of streetscape and landscape designs. When designing installation security measures, provide security in the context of site beautifi cation, rather than as a separate or redundant system of security components.

Expand on the palette of elements that can gracefully provide perimeter security in a manner that does not clutter the landscape. Avoid the monotony of endless lines of jersey barriers or bollards, which evoke defensiveness. Provide perimeter security in a manner that does not excessively restrict or impede operational use of sidewalks or pedestrian and vehicular mobility, or impact the health of existing trees. Identify an implementation strategy that can be effi ciently coordinated in the most cost-effective manner.

For more information on Force Protection planning, see the Air Force Guide on Force Protection Planning. The DoD Antiterrorism/ Force Protection Construction Standards are also available for reference.

entrances. Ensure designs meet all AT/FP requirements.

Streets Safe and effi cient traffi c fl ow can be achieved by providing an effective network of primary, secondary and tertiary levels of streets. To enhance traffi c fl ow, intersect streets at right angles. Avoid offset and skewed intersections.

Asphalt paving should be used for most streets and vehicular parking areas. Minimize curb cuts along roadways and utility cuts that require patching. Design streets to accommodate traffi c fl ow and direct vehicles to parking lots.

Curbs and Gutters Curbs provide a barrier between traffi c and pedestrians. They reduce the need for street repairs and re-direct storm water runoff. Never paint curbs. Use integral curbs and gutters for paved streets and parking lots. On perimeter, macadam and dirt roads, curbs may be excluded.

Provide curb ramps at all intersections with sidewalks.

4.3 Streetscapes

Command Policy Streetscapes should be as well thought out as the buildings. Pedestrian friendly communities make pedestrian activity possible. Expand transportation options and create a streetscape that better serves a range of users -- pedestrians, bicyclists, transit riders and automobiles. Visitor’s fi rst impression is determined by the view of the land between our buildings. Excellence in outdoor spaces creates a friendly, inviting and enjoyable community. Carefully layout the buildings on each site. Create pedestrian friendly neighborhoods in the housing districts as well as the mission support and operations areas.

Provide adequate open space while keeping walking distances appropriate. Minimize confl ict between pedestrians, vehicles and installation equipment. Use area development plans to guide the development of common areas.

Building Orientation Main building entrances should be oriented towards the major street accessing the site. If the site is at the intersection of two major streets, both building faces should be treated as primary

Use drought resistant plantings or other landscape features to minimize the need for grounds maintenance and irrigation systems in narrow areas between the street and sidewalks and consider sidewalks which are directly a part the curbs and gutters when possible.

Parking Areas Parking areas should relate to facility entrances.

Parking areas should include landscape elements to avoid visually overwhelming the facilities they serve. Functional lots can be developed to serve multiple facilities. Use consistent stall angles and sizing. 90-degree, 9-foot-wide spaces and two-way circulation aisles are preferred. Reserved spaces and on-street parking to residential areas should be restricted. Avoid the use of wheel stops.

Use painted pavement markings to designate handicap parking.

Parking shall be restricted on streets. Diagonal or 90-degree parking should be avoided where vehicles back into streets. Parking areas should be divided into smaller lots rather that consolidating into one large parking lot. Use xeriscape elements to soften the visually hard qualities of the parking lot and avoid sprinkler-type irrigation around vehicles. A ten percent landscape-to-parking area ratio is appropriate.

Use a four-inch wide, single white stripe to mark parking spaces. Designate distinguished visitor parking with portable signage maintained by facility managers. Curb plates or painted pavements for distinguished visitors is not permitted. Ensure signs comply with standards (refer to section 4.8).

pavement should be…