Security enhancements require gate closure

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Joshua Stevens
  • 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
TYNDALL AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. --  Beginning March 30 at 9 a.m., the Illinois Gate, commonly known as the "main" gate, will shut down to inbound traffic due to the installation of final denial barrier systems; the construction is tentatively scheduled to last until May 24.

These barriers, which "pop-up" from the road, are meant to further enhance perimeter security.

"[The final denial system] will deny any terrorist or unauthorized person trying to accomplish vehicle access to the base," said 2nd Lt. Branden Delong, 325th Civil Engineer Squadron project manager. "... A gate runner will no longer pose a threat to Tyndall."

During the closure, those requiring access to the base will have to utilize either the Sabre Gate west of the main gate or the Louisiana Gate, which is to the east of it; however, through the entirety of the project, outbound traffic will be able to exit through the main gate.

The Illinois Gate portion of the construction comes on the heels of the recent Sabre Gate closure and re-opening for the same purpose. Though the gate has re-opened, members may see construction on the sides of the road there, Lieutenant Delong said.

The barriers are not unique to Tyndall, but part of an Air Force-wide push.

"Air Force Special Interest Item 07-02 specifically tasked each base to establish a hardened barrier plan to mitigate the possibility of a Large Vehicle Improvised Explosive Device from running the gate and killing innocent military members," said Tracy Alvey, 325th Fighter Wing Anti-terrorism Office chief.

Mr. Alvey said 325th Security Forces Squadron members will be trained on the proper deployment of the barriers. Any vehicle which runs the gate is ensured to be trapped outside the barrier system.

The base is safeguarded from the barriers popping-up on their own.

"Technical advancement in the Delta 501 Series barrier system has virtually eliminated the possibility of an accidental activation," Mr. Alvey said. "There are also several safety features built into the activation system designed to protect vehicles in the immediate area when [it's] activated."

Speaking further on barrier risk, he said, "The benefits far outweigh the limited risk when protecting our base, personnel and our vital Air Force assets. If personnel abide by the established rules (i.e. speed limits, safe distance between vehicles, stopping if red lights are flashing), then I anticipate no safety or security concerns."

Despite the outbound part of the Illinois Gate remaining open, base members are advised to utilize the Sabre Gate when exiting the base to avoid congestion. For any questions on the project, please call Lieutenant Delong at (850) 283-3851.