New gate will relieve congestion Published Nov. 3, 2011 By Staff Sgt. Connor Estes 48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England -- The Liberty Wing continues construction of a new gate for heavy goods vehicles to help ease congestion around RAF Lakenheath's main front gate entrance. Currently, lorries and trucks seeking entry through the main gate can block the parking at the visitor control center which causes large bottle necks to form. "The new gate will help alleviate congestion and entry times at the front gate especially in the mornings," said Tech. Sgt. Aleshia Berryhill, 48th Security Forces Squadron installation security NCO in charge. "Commercial vehicles will get their passes at the new gate, so it will help relieve the crowd at the visitor center too." The large vehicle inspection station or Gate 8 will have the latest inspection technology. "It's like a large x-ray machine for trucks and lorries, said Bob Hailey, 48th Civil Engineer Squadron lead project manager. "Just like the machines at the airport that scans and can see what's inside your bags." Traffic lights have been set up in front of the site on Brandon Road as only one lane can open at a time for paving works to be completed. This will slow traffic down in that area for a total of 12 weeks. "We realize the queues on the Brandon Road will be an inconvenience for commuters," said Berryhill. "We just ask people to be patient with us ... it will all worthwhile once it's completed." The new gate has a projected cost of $13.1 million and is estimated to be completed by August, 2012.