Environmental Assessment, New Security Gate, US Air Force Museum, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio

Abstract : The United States Air Force (USAF) Museum at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base (WP AFB) proposes the installation of an additional security gate into the museum and adjacent Area B runways area for occasional use during special events. A total of eight events, each drawing estimated crowds of 30,000 to as many as 75,000, are planned at the museum to celebrate the centennial of powered flight in 2003. Thereafter, four to five annual events will be located in 'this open space, including a radio-controlled aircraft fly-in, World War I aircraft fly-in, hot air balloon launch and the Fourth of July fireworks display. Interstate travelers as well as any southbound traffic must follow a circuitous route when entering or exiting the museum. During special events, particularly events when many attendees arrive and leave simultaneously, lengthy queuing of vehicles occurs at the museum entrance and adjacent roadways. The Proposed Action would provide an additional access gate to the south side of the Area B runways area, facilitating traffic flow to and from 1-675 and other points south. The gate is proposed to be located at an existing signalized intersection along Airway Road within one mile of the I-675 interchange.