Base announces alternate gate plan due to construction project

  • Published
  • 88 Air Base Wing Public Affairs
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio --  Alternate gates will open Mar. 8 to help traffic flow during peak hours due to the closure of Gate 12A, (off SR 444, adjacent to AFMC Headquarters in Area A), and Gate 1B, (off Springfield Rd. in Area B).

Gates 12A and 1B will close to make way for the construction of overhead canopies and guard booths. The gate projects, designed to protect security personnel and motorist from the elements and enhance force protection entry control procedures, are expected to last approximately 70 days.

Base employees that use 1B are asked to use 19B and 22B. However, the gate located at the National Museum of the United States Air Force entrance will be open from 6 - 9 a.m., Monday-Friday, for inbound traffic only. Those who travel from Area A/C to Area B should note that the traffic light at the Museum entrance does not have a left turn only signal and may not be able to accommodate a large influx of traffic. These personnel are urged to use Gate 19B on National Road as a quicker and safer option. For accessing Area B after normal duty hours, Gate 19B will remain the official 24-hour gate.

Personnel usually entering through gate 12A will have several options for entering areas A and C. Gates 9A and 15A will remain open from 6 a.m. - 6 p.m., Mon - Fri. Gate 8C will act as the 24-hour gate during the construction period.

"We ask for everyone's patience in advance during the construction. While this is a temporary inconvenience now, the long term benefits of these gate enhancements will be well worth it down the road," said Col Tim Donohue, 88th Mission Support Group commander. "If we're patient, cautious and courteous toward one another, we'll get through this with minimal stress."

Base employees should anticipate some minor delays during peak travel hours and are asked to adjust their travel plans accordingly in the morning, at lunch and in the afternoon. Leadership will closely monitor the traffic flow during the construction period and adjust gate hours or openings as needs dictate.