Main gate to receive facelift

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Whitney Tucker
  • 36th Wing Public Affairs
ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam --  Traffic calming is a set of strategies put in place to slow the speed of oncoming traffic and increase safety for motorists, pedestrians and cyclists alike. The concrete barriers located at Andersen's main gate are a prime example of a traffic calming device.

However, upon further examination, the experts at the 36th Civil Engineer Squadron have devised a plan to further eliminate the margin for mishaps: tear down the current barriers and construct minimally invasive speed tables in their place.

"The project will remove the current concrete barrier serpentine and install speed tables for the inbound and outbound lanes of traffic," said Capt. Marcus Hunt, 36 CES construction management chief.

Though the current calming device has the desired effect on traffic, under a very specific set of circumstances the barrier system has the potential to do more harm than good. As a result, leadership sought out alternate remedies, finally settling on speed tables.

"The concrete barriers are a risk because in the event of a vehicle-borne improvised explosive device, the barriers would add to the secondary fragmentation causing further damage and possible loss of life," said Capt. David Lycan, 36th Security Forces Operations officer.

Elements have also been added to projections in an attempt to enhance the safety of pass and identification officers.

"We will install cutaways at the main gate to protect officers from vehicular traffic while performing ID checks on personnel and vehicles entering and the installation by leveling the existing curb," Captain Hunt said. "This would prevent the officer from being pinned to the curb in the event they were struck by a vehicle."

If all goes according to plan, construction at the main gate will begin in the very near future.

"Construction will occur from Feb. 27 through April 2," Captain Hunt said. "One lane from both the inbound and outbound direction will close for approximately 14 days."

Once complete, the main gate will not only be more aesthetically pleasing, but also ensure the safety of base commuters. However, during the construction phase, personnel should anticipate a certain level of inconvenience and plan accordingly.

"Traffic speed will be reduced in the work zone and delays are expected during high volume," Captain Hunt said. "Please utilize the Santa Rosa Gate when available and allow for additional commute time when traveling through the Main Gate."

Upon completion, Andersen's threshold will appear to have received a welcome face-lift.

"The speed tables will be made of reinforced concrete with a running bond brick pattern surface," Captain Hunt said. "They will be embedded in the pavement with a cross slope matching that of the existing road."

Throughout the transition, Team Andersen members should put their best foot forward, exercising patience and understanding.

"We appreciate the patience of all installation personnel as we strive to make the installation entry as seamless and safe as possible," Captain Lycan said.