The Army continues to make progress improving the quality of life of soldiers and their families, leaders told Congress. 

Testifying before a House subcommittee, Army representatives said they are focused on improving family housing and barracks, expanding access to child care, improving employment opportunities for spouses and reducing the turbulence of moving. 

Family housing, especially leased housing, has been a major trouble spot, but J.E. “Jack” Surash, acting assistant secretary for installations, energy and environment, said things are getting better. “We should see steady improvement, but it could take a year or two” for complete results, Surash said. 

“We have to do better for our families,” said Sgt. Maj. of the Army Michael Grinston about eliminating lead-based paint from family housing. The Army is now conducting quality assurance inspections after every change of occupancy in privatized housing.  

Big financial investments are being made in both family housing and barracks, officials said. The Army also plans to build 21 child development centers over 10 years, adding up to 4,000 spaces. 

“Over the next 10 years, the Army has programmed over $10 billion to improve barracks for all components,” officials said in a statement that also noted this is on top of $2.1 billion invested in barracks construction, restoration and modernization over the last three years.