WASHINGTON -- Improvements in dormitories, child development centers and energy conservation plans will come to fruition as the Air Force receives about $1.7 billion in Defense-related appropriations through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act, military finance officials said.

"The Air Force fully supports the administration's commitment to invest Recovery Act dollars with unprecedented transparency and accountability so Americans know how and where their tax dollars are being spent," said Audrey Davis, deputy assistant secretary of the Air Force for financial operations.

"We welcome the help provided through the president's economic stimulus package," said Col. Kris Beasley, 42nd Air Base Wing commander. "The projects identified for Maxwell-Gunter will not only make our installation a better place to work and live, but will provide much-needed support to our regional economy. I look forward to getting the work started as soon as possible."

With a focus on Airmen care, families and environmental stewardship, the Air Force's portion of the stimulus will spur about 1,500 military construction and facility improvement projects including quality-of-life upgrades and renewable-energy research.

ARRA funds will be used to support high-priority programs such as fuel-cell, wind and solar research and energy security. Air Force leaders support national and Department of Defense efforts to achieve greater energy independence through funding these critical military energy research programs.

"ARRA funds are being used for high priority maintenance and repair projects as well as new child development centers, military family housing and dormitories," said Air Force Civil Engineer Maj. Gen. Del Eulberg."This is consistent with Air Force goals to improve the quality of life for its Airmen and their families."

Officials specifically identified the locations with the greatest need based on previously conducted facility and requirements studies to maximize the benefit of ARRA funding.

"Many of the projects entail making much-needed improvements to military installations and include repairs on roads, fitness centers, chapels, utility systems and improvements to achieve energy efficiency goals," General Eulberg said.

According to the general, ARRA funding will enable more than 1,500 maintenance and repair projects valued at $1.1 billion in addition to $260 million for Air Force military construction and housing: $100 million for four dorms, $80 million for seven CDCs, and $80 million for two MFH projects. Additionally, Air Force engineers will construct four Energy Conservation Investment Program projects using $17 million provided to the Department of Defense.

Ms. Davis said the Air Force is committed to following secretary of defense guidance to meet critical accountability requirements while ensuring efficient execution of the projects.

"When it comes to being accountable to the Air Force family and the American people, we want to do it right," Ms. Davis said. "Investment in Air Force-related projects will further President Barack Obama's goal of providing much-needed stimulus to the economy while improving quality of life for Airmen and their families."

To view a complete list of the specific projects announced, visit www.defenselink.mil/recovery and www.recovery.gov.