JOINT BASE ELMENDORF-RICHARDSON, Alaska -- The Post Road and Richardson gates are scheduled for construction, and motorists should expect delays when entering and leaving the installation.
The Post Road construction began April 15, and is expected to last until January. During this time, all non-commercial traffic, to include bicyclists and pedestrians, will not be allowed through the gate as a matter of safety, said Army Capt. David Cook, 673d Security Forces operations officer.
The first phase of the Richardson Gate construction is scheduled to begin May 1. The second phase is expected to have a greater impact on outbound traffic beginning approximately June 1.
During both phases, traffic will be allowed through the gate, but could experience some delays as they are routed around the construction, Cook said.
“The Alaska construction season is very short,” Cook said. “So we have a lot we need to do in a short period of time. We appreciate everybody’s patience and are doing the best we can to get everybody on base as quickly and safely as possible.”
Because of the rerouted traffic, commuters should plan for an increased wait time during the morning rush, particularly at the Boniface Gate as it will be shouldering the burden from the Post Road Gate until its construction is complete.
Cook explained the closure is not expected to be permanent; it’s simply extended as the construction of the large vehicle inspection station is a large project.
“We’re pushing all available personnel we have to Boniface during peak hours to try to get people on base as fast as possible,” Cook said.
The construction for the Richardson Gate is to provide a safer environment for security forces and military police personnel to work in as well as to establish an improved vehicle barrier system, Cook said.