New traffic lights in interest of safety

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Clay Murray
  • 75th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah --  Pedestrians and automobile operators on Hill Air Force Base can expect to see a new traffic light on South Gate Avenue come March 14.

A commonly used street, South Gate Avenue follows the South Gate entrance toward the flightline and passes access to the 419th Fighter Wing headquarters, 75th Air Base Wing headquarters, depot facilities and numerous other buildings. Pedestrian traffic on this particular street can be quite hefty.

"There was an inspection done by a traffic safety council that ruled installing traffic lights was the safest solution," said Maj. Jim Kossler, 775th Civil Engineer Squadron commander.

The $313,000 construction job was contracted out to the local construction company Chung and Associates who in turn subcontracted the work out to Sorensen Construction Incorporated.

Paperwork for the job started in June of 2005, and construction began Nov. 5, 2007. The lights will be activated on March 12, and the system is scheduled to be fully functional by March 14.

"Installation of the new stoplight junctions aims to keep Hill AFB employees safe," said Col. Linda Medler, 75th Air Base Wing commander. "Safety is always a big concern, and during the high traffic hours it is especially critical that we do whatever we can to look out for our people. Having said that, it's also up to the individuals to adhere to the stoplight signals whenever entering the cross walk."

The three sets of stoplights surround major crosswalks that separate the east side of base from the respective parking lots.

"These new stoplights have been set in motion with the ultimate goal of improving traffic flow and keeping the streets safe for pedestrians," said Taya Judkins, Saber project manager.

One of the major reasons why traffic can become so backed up along South Gate Avenue during busy hours is the staggered groups of pedestrians.

"With the new lights installed and running, pedestrians will be able to cross the street in fewer groups that are larger rather than several groups that are smaller," said Major Kossler. "The street lights will be red and permit crossing for about 30-45 seconds at a time."

The 75th Security Forces Squadron will be on alert for the new traffic pattern to make sure things go smoothly.