Officials at Iwakuni Marine Corps Air Station, Japan, are giving Crossroads Mall Food Court more space to accommodate customers and a new look during an ongoing renovation project.
Since the food court opened in 1997, it has added several well-known eateries that weren’t part of the original offerings.
“The addition of national-brand quick-service restaurants such as Pizza Hut, Taco Bell and KFC has increased usage of the Crossroads Food Court,” said Don West, architect and designer for Iwakuni’s Marine Corps Community Services.
“Planning for the project began in November 2003 and construction started in October 2004,” West explained. “The renovation is currently in phase two of four phases. The estimated completion time frame is spring of this year.”
The finished dining area will be about 1,800 square feet, increasing the customer capacity from 156 to 215, according to West. The $370,000 renovation is funded entirely by nonappropriated fund activities at Iwakuni, including the food court itself.
“All-new furnishings and privacy dividers will increase the comfort level,” West said. “The increased size of the dining area will also allow for smaller tables instead of the current long rows of tables.”
The renovation also calls for a new beverage station.
“The new drink station’s location, at the center of the dining area, will help alleviate congestion around the front of the restaurants,” West said.
The food court is getting a new look, too.
“The new décor will utilize warm earth tones, creating a more up-to-date and modern look,” West said. The furniture is made of medium-tone wood and plastic laminate.
Future projects include adding a coffee shop and moving the beauty salon into the Crossroads Mall from the Marine Corps Exchange across the street.
“These projects will help meet the needs and desires of the Iwakuni community,” West said.
