At AHRN.com, we want to offer our readers a place to turn to when facing the challenge of a PCS. You know how it is when you get orders. You go to your Facebook friends list, find someone who is there or has been recently and get all the details! We are sharing the little things that help you to make a home at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson!
In your opinion, what are the best neighborhoods to live in?
Many people choose to live on post housing. Wait times are frequently up to six months, so it is smart to get your application in as quickly as you can. Housing on JBER is run by Aurora Military Housing.
What schools are considered the best in the area?
Schools around Elemendorf-Richardson are part of the Anchorage School District. You can research grade-specific offerings at the school district’s website or Great Schools. Learn more about finding the right school.
What is easiest gate to get in during high traffic times?
Gate times vary a good bit. Find up-to-date gate times at JBER’s website.
Are there any odd local installation policies?
Military family members must switch their driver’s license to Alaska within 90 days of arriving, or 10 days of accepting employment.
Where do I (service member) actually report to when I arrive?
Service members check in at The People’s Center, Building 8517 at 8517 20th Street, Suite 111.
Can I (service member) get off post (either home or to a restaurant) for lunch or does traffic make it a no-go?
This varies tremendously based on where you work. Because some gates are only open during peak traffic times, traffic patterns can change at different points in the work day. There are several lunch options available on the installation itself.
Where do you like to do your grocery shopping? Where is the best produce? The best prices?
Shopping at the commissary is a money-saver in Alaska. It is a “high cost of living” area and grocery prices can be a big surprise if you are coming from a CONUS assignment.
Where do you like to do your clothes/home shopping? Is it worth the drive to go out of town anywhere?
With Anchorage only 30 minutes away, there is no shortage of shopping! Anchorage has a Nordstrom, REI, Banana Republic – and it’s closer than those stores are to Ft Leonard Wood in Missouri!
Best spot for a date night?
Anchorage offers restaurants, nightlife and fun opportunities of all kinds! From restaurants to bars to live music, there’s a little bit of everything. For a special occasion, The Crow’s Nest offers an extensive wine list, french cuisine and a beautiful view of Anchorage!
Best rainy day energy-busters for the kids?
It may not be an issue of rainy days as much as it is very cold weather! If emergency energy expenditure is in order, Arctic Gymnastics offers an open gym with mats and trampolines galore. The Imaginarium Discovery Center offers active learning with a solid dose of fun.
What do you LOVE about your duty station?
You can’t beat the beauty of Alaska, and at Elmendorf-Richardson you also have the conveniences of Anchorage a short drive away!
What else would you tell your friend who has just received orders?
Take a deep breath. Alaska is OCONUS, so focus on getting all the paperwork in order so you can enjoy everything the state has to offer once you get here!
We want to know:
Have you lived at JB Elmendorf – Richardson? What suggestions do you have?