Canopy project to cause weekend Hartwell Gate closure Published Feb. 23, 2016 By Mark Wyatt 66th Air Base Group Public Affairs HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- The Hartwell Gate will close on Saturday, March 5 at 5 a.m. and remain closed through Monday, March 7 at 5 a.m. in order to install structural steel as part of the gate's ongoing canopy project. During this time, the Vandenberg Gate will be open 24 hours until the Hartwell Gate reopens Monday morning. "There is no possible way to make these gate improvements without some traffic disruption," said Jerry Sorensen, 66th Civil Engineering Division program manager. "The cooperation and understanding of those who use that gate on the weekend is greatly appreciated while incoming and outgoing traffic is temporarily redirected to the Vandenberg Gate." In order to minimize traffic disruption throughout the project, CE officials have attempted to schedule work outside peak traffic hours. "The temporary closure of the Hartwell Gate is required so the equipment used to install the steel structure will have access to both the inbound and outbound lanes," said Sorensen. He added that when complete, the canopy will provide shelter to members of the 66th Security Forces Squadron who provide security to the installation 365 days a year in all weather conditions. Capt. Christopher McNamee, 66th Security Forces Squadron operations officer, looks forward to the improvements for those who work at the gates throughout the year. "Our entry controllers operate in all types of weather, even when the base is closed for blizzard conditions, so this is a welcome addition," he said. "During this period, security will remain our number one priority, so there may be some delays to ensure that Hanscom Air Force Base is able to fulfill its mission." The project includes similar canopies at each of the installations two other gates. Work on those is expected later this year. For further information on the gate closure, contact Sorensen at 781-225-2973 or Greg Covington at 781-225-6049.