Mold problems prompt evacuation of Lackland dorm

SAN ANTONIO (KTSA News) – About 200 Airmen have been moved out of a dorm at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland because of mold problems.

Brigadier Gen. Laura Lenderman said in a press release that civil engineers are working on 28 rooms affected by mold in building 1215 with an estimated completion date of Aug. 8.

“They’re treating rooms with a regimen that includes a thorough bleaching process as well as utilizing dehumidifiers, removing and replacing carpet with vinyl planks, and installing ceiling fans,” said Lenderman, commander of the 502nd Air Base Wing and Joint Base San Antonio. “They are also repainting walls to refresh the rooms.”

The investigation was launched after photos surfaced on social media last week showing mold on walls, a ceiling, bedding and shoes.

Gen. Lednerman expects remediation efforts for the entire building to be completed within two months, and similar remediation efforts are planned for other dorms.

“JBSA has the largest dormitory program in the Air Force with 77 dorms and bed space capacity of 27,000. There are many factors that affect our ability, not only to maintain our dormitories, but also to sustain them,” said Lenderman.

So far, about 200 permanent party and technical training residents have required relocation. They’ve been moved to other dormitories at Lackland or on-base lodging, and more airmen could be relocated before it’s all said and done.

“The health and well-being of our Airmen, Soldiers, Sailors, Marines, Coast Guardsmen and civilians at JBSA are essential,” Lenderman said. “Mold in living facilities is unacceptable. To residents who have voiced their concerns and brought attention to this much-needed call to action, I thank you.”

 

Here’s Brigadier Gen. Laura Lenderman’s Facebook Post concerning mold problems at JBSA-Lackland.