Navigate gate traffic, patiently, eye safety Published Nov. 6, 2009 By Col. Allen Jamerson 72nd Air Base Wing and Tinker Installation Commander TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- The combination of closing Vance Gate for needed upgrades and the state's repair work on the bridge across Interstate 40 accessing the Eaker Gate, is unfortunately causing potentially hazardous backups at the Tinker and Eaker Gates each morning. It appears that the longest delays at these gates are normally between 6 and 8 a.m. This often causes traffic to actually back up onto Interstate 40. The associated safety hazard is of extreme concern to me as installation commander and to your respective unit commanders as well. So, what can we do to help reduce the risk of an accident? First, I ask each of you to do your best to not add to the congestion at the Tinker and Eaker Gates. If you see traffic is already backing up onto the interstate, don't make the line longer. Go on to one of the other gates where traffic is less congested. Second, starting on Monday morning, we are opening a gate to the Tinker Aerospace Complex. The gate is located on South Midwest Boulevard, north of Southeast 74th Street. This gate will be two lanes and inbound only, open from 6 to 8 a.m. We will also increase staffing at the Tinker and Eaker Gates as much as possible to help move traffic through. We have asked the Oklahoma Department of Transportation to support us with signage on the highway, warning folks of congestion ahead and possible stopped traffic. Once active, these signs should alert folks on the road unfamiliar with Tinker to slow down or proceed with more caution. Some other things you can do to help us navigate through these construction projects are: · Alter your arrival and departure schedules. Half an hour earlier or later may make a complete difference on the amount of traffic you encounter at a gate. In some cases you may need to coordinate with your supervisor or commander to adjust arrival and departure hours. · Consider using a gate other than Tinker or Eaker in the morning. If you work in a building or location east of the Tinker Gate and east of D Avenue consider using the Hruskocy Gate in the morning. For those headed for the west side of the base, including the reserves area, use Tinker Gate or Gott Gates. For those needing to go to the Navy area and ALC industrial facilities on the eastern side, consider using the South Gate at the TAC. Following these options should end up being quicker and safer for your drive to work. Most importantly, be patient and courteous. Do not choose a gate that backs up onto Interstate 40, change your routine and use a different gate. It may take a few more minutes to go to the next gate, but it's a small price to pay to increase traffic safety for everyone. More gate closures and openings will occur as we navigate through future scheduled projects. We will make sure you are informed well in advance. Please remember that safety is always our No. 1 priority.