Wright-Patterson AFB announces gate changes to ease traffic congestion

  • Published
  • By Alyssa Janeway
  • 88th Air Base Wing

In an ongoing effort to alleviate traffic congestion and improve the flow of vehicles, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base has announced several key changes to gate operations and traffic patterns. These adjustments are designed to enhance efficiency and ensure the safety of all personnel, residents and visitors accessing the base.

“The 88th Civil Engineer Group is helping us look at different options as well for every gate that we have open, these improvements that we're trying to make to the gate, when it comes to the drop arms, to traffic lights, all that, those are all improvements we're looking at as well,” said Maj. Michael Bruno, operations officer with 88th Security Forces Squadron. “We're always going to look out for the wellbeing of our people.”

As these efforts move forward, Team Wright-Patt remains committed to keeping the community informed about traffic updates and gate operations. One of the most recent changes involves adjustments near Gate 12A.

Gate 12A Update: Changes at Chidlaw Rd and Spruce Way

On Feb. 8, 2025, a significant change to traffic flow was implemented near Gate 12A. The intersection of Chidlaw Rd and Spruce Way, which previously operated as a four-way stop, will now be converted to a two-way stop.

What’s Changing?

  • Chidlaw Rd will no longer have stop signs, allowing for smoother and quicker movement of traffic along this route.
  • Spruce Way will remain a stop-controlled intersection, but with an important modification. New signage indicating “CROSS TRAFFIC DOES NOT STOP” will be installed below the existing stop signs.

These changes are expected to enhance the flow of traffic, reducing delays and helping alleviate congestion in the area. All commuters are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the new layout to ensure a smooth transition.

Gate 22B Update: Morning Traffic Flow

In response to frequent traffic disruptions at Gate 22B (I-675), new traffic control measures have been implemented to improve traffic efficiency during peak morning hours.

What’s Changing?

  • Beginning Monday, Feb. 10, from 6 a.m. to 9 a.m., traffic control measures will be put into place to prevent vehicles from crossing lanes.
  • Drivers will be directed into designated lanes to streamline inbound traffic and minimize congestion.

This change comes in response to issues caused by lane crossing at the Col. Glenn exit, which has often disrupted traffic flow and decreased processing efficiency.

What You Need to Do:

  • Drivers are encouraged to plan ahead and familiarize themselves with alternative routes to their destinations.
  • In some cases, vehicles may be redirected into different lanes than usual. Be sure to understand how to navigate these new lanes to avoid confusion and delays.

Exercise extreme caution as the base adapts to these changes, especially during the initial days of implementation.

Looking Ahead

With these strategic changes, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base aims to improve overall traffic flow and reduce congestion at key entry points. While these measures may take some time to fully integrate, base officials appreciate the cooperation and patience of all commuters during this transition.

 “We are maintaining communication with security forces and working to implement solutions for gate congestion,” said Brady Klein, a civil engineer with the 88th Civil Engineer Group. “We not only want to mitigate the impacts of the gate traffic but minimize our effects to the surrounding community. On top of executing projects stemming from an increased focus on our gates over the last few years, we now have been working to mitigate rapidly developed congestion problems caused by recent events.”

Team Wright-Patt remains committed to providing timely and accurate information to its community members. For real-time updates on gate access and traffic conditions, visit the WPAFB Gate Information page. This page serves as the primary source for gate hours, closures, construction projects and other important notifications.