Parking in Liberty Village

  • Published
  • By Brig. Gen. John W. Hesterman
  • 48th Fighter Wing commander
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  

COMPLAINT:

I have some concerns regarding the new base housing on RAF Lakenheath (Liberty Village). First, I would like to say that it is a pleasure to live in the new housing. It has the amenities of an American home and the safety of living on base. 

My main concern is the parking situation in this new area. Every occupant was briefed during initial move-in inspection that they should try to utilize the two parking spaces provided. One space in the garage, a huge luxury especially with winter approaching, and one driveway space. This is not happening and it has led to an enormous safety issue in my opinion. 

On any typical night after 1800 local it would be impossible for most emergency response vehicles to access the homes in Liberty Village. I know this because it is difficult for me with a regular size vehicle to make it through the streets. At this time, occupants are not even trying to utilize their garage, and there are no double yellow lines painted restricting parking to one side of the road. The Airmen that live in Liberty Village park on both sides of the street which makes a tight slalom course. This also creates limited sight distance in the case of small children darting out between parked cars.


RESPONSE: 

You are absolutely correct. Road marking and signage will very soon be in place in these areas to promote safety and ensure access to your neighborhood by emergency responders or service vehicles. Notification will be provided to residents within the next two weeks and the effort should be complete by Christmas. 

Additionally, Security Forces will continue to patrol the area and appropriately address any safety concerns. I also ask all residents of our military housing areas to be mindful of where they are parking to allow others (including emergency vehicles) easy transit and to avoid potentially dangerous situations.

If you have any further questions or concerns, I encourage you to contact the Housing Office at DSN 226-2000 or Comm 01638 522000.