Gate closed for construction Published April 16, 2010 By Brandice J. Armstrong Tinker Public Affairs TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- Midwest Boulevard Gate is under construction. Having closed April 13, it is not scheduled to reopen until July 12. To ease traffic during the construction, a temporary gate is open approximately one-half mile west of the Midwest Boulevard Gate, just south of Bldg. 9001. Drivers are asked to be patient during the construction and follow the detour signs that have been placed. The City of Oklahoma City spearheaded the contract and hired Rudy Construction Co. of Oklahoma City to install a curve-weave pattern entrance, ID-check islands and guard shack with utility connections. The projected is estimated to cost $350,000 and is funded by the Oklahoma Aerospace Institute. Mark Nabywaniec, 72nd Air Base Wing Civil Engineer Directorate project manager for Civil Design and Construction, said when finished, Midwest Boulevard Gate will adhere to necessary anti-terrorism and force-protection requirements. But the "final-denial barrier system" will not be installed; that will be added at a later date. The Tinker Gate on Air Depot Blvd. is scheduled to close May 5 or when the Vance Gate on Sooner Road is reopened. During the 240 days it's closed, contractors will install the "final-denial barrier system" to prevent unauthorized vehicles from entering the installation. Additionally, Tinker Gate will be converted into a 24-hour entrance, complete with visitors' center.