Columbus AFB Exchange Breaks Ground on Renovation of Branch Store

The Exchange is improving the Quality of Life at Columbus Air Force Base in Mississippi with a renovated branch store.

Store Manager Janet Manders, 14th Flying Training Wing Commander Col. James Blech, 14th Mission Support Group Commander Col. Scott Ryder and Exchange Chief Real Estate Project Manager James Page broke ground on the expansion Aug. 20.

The current store is more than 50 years old and was last renovated in 2015. The $10.4 million upgrade will replace the old service station located nearby and create a one-stop shopping experience with an Express in front of the store. The project will add 5,455 square feet to the existing 24,200-square-foot store. The renovation will include Valero-branded fuel with diesel, an expanded Military Clothing Store, Hunt Brothers Pizza, CHOPZ, a sports nutrition shop, walk-in coolers, upgraded wall finishes, décor and more.

The Exchange is funding $7.1 million, while the Air Force is contributing the remainder.

“Exciting changes are underway at the Columbus AFB Exchange, and we’re honored to serve our Nation’s heroes and their families,” Manders said.

The store is expected to be complete in late 2026.

On Aug. 20, a groundbreaking ceremony was held for a $10.4 million upgrade to the Exchange branch store at Columbus AFB in Mississippi. The renovated store is scheduled to open in 2026. Pictured: Col. James Blech, 14th Flying Training Wing commander; James Page, chief, Exchange Real Estate Project Management; Janet Manders, branch store manager; George Hicks, contractor; Chief Master Sgt. Lebaron King, 14th Flying Training Wing Command chief; and Col. Scott Ryder, 14th Mission Support Group commander.