The Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) is a major military installation located in the state of Washington, United States. It is a combined base of the United States Army and the United States Air Force, and it serves as a critical training and operational base for various military units. One of the essential aspects of JBLM is its housing facilities, which provide accommodation to military personnel, their families, and civilian employees. In this article, we will delve into the details of JBLM Lewis housing, exploring its history, types of housing, amenities, and the process of applying for housing.
History of JBLM Lewis Housing
The history of JBLM Lewis housing dates back to the early 20th century when the base was first established as a military training facility. Over the years, the base has undergone significant expansion and modernization, with a focus on providing high-quality housing to its personnel. In the 1990s, the base underwent a major renovation, which included the construction of new housing units, renovation of existing ones, and the development of community facilities. Today, JBLM Lewis housing is managed by the Army’s Residential Communities Initiative (RCI) program, which aims to provide safe, comfortable, and affordable housing to military families.
Types of Housing
JBLM Lewis housing offers a range of accommodation options to suit different needs and preferences. The types of housing available include:
- Family Housing: These are single-family homes, townhouses, and apartments designed for families with children. They are equipped with modern amenities, including kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry facilities.
- Unaccompanied Personnel Housing (UPH): These are dormitory-style accommodations designed for single personnel or those without dependents. UPH facilities offer shared kitchen and laundry facilities, as well as common areas for socializing.
- Off-Base Housing: For those who prefer to live off-base, JBLM offers a range of off-base housing options, including apartments, houses, and condos. These properties are managed by private landlords and are subject to rent controls and other regulations.
In addition to these types of housing, JBLM Lewis also offers specialized housing for personnel with disabilities, as well as temporary lodging facilities for those in transit or on temporary duty.
Amenities and Services
JBLM Lewis housing offers a range of amenities and services to enhance the quality of life for residents. These include:
- Community Centers: These centers offer a range of activities, including fitness classes, youth programs, and social events.
- Parks and Playgrounds: JBLM Lewis has several parks and playgrounds, providing a safe and enjoyable environment for children to play and exercise.
- Shopping and Dining: The base has a range of shopping and dining facilities, including a commissary, exchange, and food court.
- Health and Wellness: JBLM Lewis has a range of health and wellness facilities, including a hospital, clinic, and fitness center.
Residents of JBLM Lewis housing also have access to a range of support services, including childcare, youth programs, and counseling services.
Applying for Housing
To apply for housing at JBLM Lewis, personnel must meet certain eligibility criteria, including:
- Military Service: Personnel must be active-duty military, Reserve, or National Guard members.
- Dependents: Personnel must have dependents, such as a spouse or children, to be eligible for family housing.
- Rank and Pay Grade: Personnel must meet certain rank and pay grade requirements to be eligible for housing.
The application process for JBLM Lewis housing typically involves the following steps:
- Pre-Application: Personnel must complete a pre-application form, which includes providing personal and military information.
- Housing Brief: Personnel must attend a housing brief, which provides information on the housing application process and available housing options.
- Housing Application: Personnel must complete a housing application form, which includes providing documentation, such as leave and earnings statements and dependent verification.
- Housing Assignment: Once the application is approved, personnel will be assigned to a housing unit, which may involve a waiting period.
| Category | Eligibility Criteria |
|---|---|
| Family Housing | Active-duty military, Reserve, or National Guard members with dependents |
| Unaccompanied Personnel Housing (UPH) | Single personnel or those without dependents |
| Off-Base Housing | Active-duty military, Reserve, or National Guard members who prefer to live off-base |
Future Developments
JBLM Lewis housing is continuously evolving to meet the changing needs of military personnel and their families. Future developments include:
- New Housing Construction: The base is planning to construct new housing units, including single-family homes and apartments, to meet the growing demand for housing.
- Renovation and Modernization: Existing housing units are being renovated and modernized to provide more comfortable and energy-efficient living spaces.
- Sustainability Initiatives: JBLM Lewis is implementing sustainability initiatives, such as solar panels and energy-efficient appliances, to reduce the base's carbon footprint and promote environmental stewardship.
These developments aim to enhance the quality of life for JBLM Lewis residents, while also promoting sustainability and environmental responsibility.
What is the average wait time for housing at JBLM Lewis?
+The average wait time for housing at JBLM Lewis varies depending on the type of housing and the time of year. However, personnel can expect to wait anywhere from a few weeks to several months for family housing, and several days to a few weeks for unaccompanied personnel housing.
Can I apply for housing at JBLM Lewis if I am a civilian employee?
+No, housing at JBLM Lewis is only available to active-duty military, Reserve, and National Guard members, and their dependents. Civilian employees are not eligible for on-base housing, but may be able to find off-base housing options in the surrounding area.
What amenities are available at JBLM Lewis housing?
+JBLM Lewis housing offers a range of amenities, including community centers, parks and playgrounds, shopping and dining facilities, and health and wellness facilities. Residents also have access to support services, such as childcare, youth programs, and counseling services.
