MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. -- Beginning Nov. 5, the 24/7 main gate will move from the 2nd Avenue North gate to the 10th Avenue North gate, commonly known as the back gate.
During this transition, the 2nd Avenue North gate will change from its 24-hour main gate access status to 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. weekdays, and closed weekends and federal holidays.
Upgrades to the 10th Avenue North gate were designed and built to operate as a 24-hour security checkpoint with enhanced safety measures for both the public and military entities. It also provides a sheltered, controlled area for guests requesting base passes when the visitor control center is closed. It’s with this feature that’ll make the transition advantageous for visitors, according to base security.
The one feature the 10th Avenue North Gate has is a sheltered, controlled area for interaction with entry controllers as opposed to the current system where public guests have to endure standing outside or walking along traffic lines to be verified for base access.
“There’s a section in the back of the security building where the visitors can interact with security as they can get their base pass,” said 1st Lt. Jennifer Carr, 341st Security Forces Squadron flight commander. “This will ensure their safety, especially if they need a pass after working hours because currently, the visitors would have to park at the visitor center parking lot, walk over to the gate, and then proceed along the line of traffic as they approach the checkpoint to obtain their pass.”
Carr agrees that moving the gate will enhance the impression that visitors will have when gaining access to the base.
“I believe that with this system in place, and the segregation of foot traffic with main gate traffic, it will minimize any safety hazards and keep visitors safe from inclement weather,” said Carr.