ANDREWS AFB, Md. –
Commuters are learning how to navigate the new traffic pattern at the Main Gate entrance, according to the Airmen responsible for maintaining a safe and fluid morning for base employees.
Observers and traffic controllers have been stationed at the intersections of Alabama Avenue and D Street, Perimeter Road and Westover Drive as well as Alabama Avenue and the main parking lot south of the Air Force District of Washington Headquarters building. Traffic controllers from the 316th Wing Security Forces Squadron have noticed an easing of tensions.
"It's a 180 degree difference," said Tech. Sergeant Jennifer Caldwell, 316 SFS patrolman. "People are getting used to it, so they're relaxing. Things are going smoothly." As a traffic controller, she witnessed the difference first hand Monday, when drivers were not used to the new system of cones and lights set up to funnel them on and off base quickly.
316 SFS completed the mission without a single fender bender. Due to the success, Wednesday morning was the last time that controllers and observers were used.
Currently, crews are setting up for the construction of a five-story facility that will accommodate 2,300 administrative personnel, relocated as a result of the 2005 Base Realignment and Closure. The detours will be permanent for the next two years as construction continues.
"We'll be opening a gate for construction workers as soon as we seal off the perimeter of their work zone," said Staff Sgt. Benjamin Effinger, who worked traffic control at the Main Gate, Alabama Avenue and D Street on Monday and Wednesday. Allowing construction workers their own access point will alleviate some traffic. "It's been worse during the mornings, but everyone's pretty friendly," said Sergeant Caldwell.
Master Sgt. William Ping, 316 SFS NCO in charge of operations, reminds commuters to "use alternate gates and commit to your lane," citing indecision at the Main Gate as a major source of congestion.