National Guard Armory begins major overhaul

Construction began last week on an extensive remodeling project for the Hutchinson National Guard Armory.

Staff Sgt. Russell Victorian, supply sergeant and official historian for the local National Guard unit, said the complete revamp will include new electrical, plumbing, heating, air conditioning and ventilation systems, new ceilings, windows and doors, and the addition of a sprinkler system and women’s locker room.

“In essence, this is the first major overhaul since (the armory’s) construction,” Victorian said. “I am pretty darned sure that was 1975, if I can remember correctly.”

Until the remodeling is done, the armory staff will work from three secure office trailers and four storage trailers on the property. “This is a pretty big project,” Victorian said. “We’ll be in these trailers probably through June next year, or early July.”

(Jorge Sosa is a staff writer for the Hutchinson Leader. He can be reached at sosa@hutchinsonleader.com)