Construction to widen road, improve traffic flow

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Shanda L. De Anda
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
In an effort to improve traffic flow, the City of Box Elder will perform road construction on Liberty and North Ellsworth roads through Box Elder; work is scheduled for June 8 through August 1, Mondays through Fridays from 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

Construction, which will result in the widening and reasphalting of the roads, is expected to impact the flow of traffic on to and off of Ellsworth Air Force Base. During the first phase of construction, June 8 through June 23, although traffic may be restricsted,  an inbound and outbound lane will remain open for traffic through the Liberty Gate. 

"The bottom line is this work needs to be done," said Col. Scott Vander Hamm, 28th Bomb Wing commander. "We can expect some inconveniences like any road project, but it's temporary and the end result will be better for the entire community.

"I expect everyone to follow the posted signs and instructions of the traffic control folks, plan ahead and allow for additional time for off-base commutes. I want everyone to get to work but I need everyone to get to work safely."

Traffic control officials echoed Colonel Vander Hamm's sentiments regarding safety. 

"Pay attention to the road construction signs," said Ross Mohr, traffic control manager for this project. 

Efforts were made to minimize the disruption to traffic flow as much as possible.

"We will not have to close the gates," said Howie Aubertin, 28th Civil Engineer Squadron Programs Flight chief. "Also, an inbound and outbound lane will remain open for the Liberty Gate, South Dakota Air and Space Museum and the visitor control center while work is being done in those areas - barriers and flaggers will be used to help direct the flow of traffic." 

As part of this federally funded, state administered construction project, North Ellsworth will be widened to allow for a center turn lane. Workers will mill and place new asphalt at North Ellsworth Road, repave from outside the Patriot Gate to Highway 14-16 and a new lane will be added to the Liberty Gate. 

"The new lane will eventually dovetail with the construction of the new Liberty Gate in 2011; the same is planned for the new Patriot Gate in 2010," said Mr. Aubertin. "Overall this project will improve travel and safety."