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Did You Know: The ins and outs of Tinker gate?

  • Published
  • By Kimberly Woodruff
  • Tinker Public Affairs
TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. --  Tinker Gate, the main gate on Air Depot, can be very confusing to maneuver, but the design serves to move large amounts of traffic through the gates during busy times.

The gate's four lanes are opened starting at the far left and on to the second, third and fourth as needed to accommodate traffic.

Although there have not been any accidents in regard to people entering the gate, there have been complaints of drivers being cut off by others switching lanes once they pass the 'S' curves just inside the gate.

When facing the gate from the outside looking in, the far two left lanes have the option of the first or second lanes, which are separated by a broken line. Drivers are encouraged to follow the law here and not only yield to other drivers, but to use blinkers when switching to the other lane. Common sense shows that no one wants to be hit, so signaling a lane change lets other drivers know what is happening.

After passing the 'S' curves, there is a short but ample distance for drivers to make any legal lane changes, but remember to use signals and common sense. It isn't wise to race from the far left lane to the far right, so use good judgment. Respect for other drivers will result in folks arriving safely at their destination without a scratch on their vehicle.

In regard to exiting Tinker Gate, there have been some accidents according to Tech. Sgt. Daniel Strothers, 72nd Security Forces Squadron.

"People obviously get into a hurry leaving to go home and bump into each other," he said. The sergeant recommends practicing good safety and following a car length distance so there is time to stop before hitting the other guy.

Parking at the Visitor Center
The Tinker Visitor Center, the building situated in front of the Tinker Gate has a small parking lot that sees a lot of traffic. Sergeant Strothers reminds everyone who uses the lot that parking is for customers only. Additionally, parking is for only half an hour.

Vehicles are logged in a book and after 30 minutes, Security Forces is authorized to have the car towed. There are large signs posted that explain the 30-minute rule for customers only and cars will be towed at the owners expense. Towing expenses can range from $150 on up.

For those who have lost their driving privileges on base, the only authorized parking outside the gate is a dirt lot located outside of Gott Gate. There are plenty of other large lots around such as the shopping centers on 29th Street, but one would need to check with the businesses regarding their policies before parking there all day.