Construction begins soon at west gate

Drivers who use Ramstein’s West Gate are reminded that construction at the gate is scheduled to begin Monday and lane closures will change throughout the project.

The construction should last approximately six months.

The gate will receive a roof-top canopy that will cross all lanes of traffic and is intended to help keep unpleasant weather off of security forces members protecting the base.

The 435th Security Forces and 435th Civil Engineer Squadron have teamed up to create a traffic plan that will allow for no fewer than three lanes of inbound traffic during the morning rush and no fewer than two outbound lanes for the afternoon rush, said Capt. Keith Quick, 435th SFS operation officer.

“There may still be congestion, but the best suggestion I can make to people is to be understanding that construction is taking place and to try and be patient,” he said.
Although construction might slow things down, it’s protecting security forces from harsh weather while doing their duty.

“The canopy is a good thing because it will provide over-head cover and protect the security forces members from rain, snow and direct sun,” the captain said.
He also said the morale of the troops will increase because of their improved working conditions.

“Working a 12-hour shift at the gates makes for a long day, but it is made worse when it is cold and you are wet from snow or rain or when it is warm and the sun is beating down on you,” Captain Quick said. “The canopy will provide protection from the elements that will make the day just a little bit better.”
Enhancing work conditions for security forces members won’t end at the west gate but will extend to the east gate as well.

Security forces members working at the east gate will receive the same overhead canopy improvements during a construction scheduled to take place in September, said Juergen Pfletschinger, 435th CES deputy of construction.

The construction will begin after the completion of the west gate project and the completion of the Harmon/Lincoln traffic circle; it will last approximately four months.