After a thorough safety, security and manpower analysis, it is leadership’s intent to permanently close Hill’s Southwest Gate (near the Elementary School), which was already operating under limited hours, beginning July 7.

The Southwest Gate is being closed to enhance installation security, improve pedestrian safety for children walking to and from school, and to maximize security forces manpower and resources. The closure of the Southwest Gate will have no impact on the hours at the pedestrian school gate.

During peak traffic hours, around 1,400 drivers per day use the Southwest Gate, which gives Hill AFB residents and employees convenient access to Clearfield, Layton and Hill Field Elementary School.

When the gate closes, officials are asking drivers to be patient. There will be an initial impact on peak-hour traffic at the other gates while commuters adjust to new traffic patterns. The new outbound lanes recently completed at South Gate Drive, as well as the additional turn lanes and traffic lights under construction on Highway 193 (which should be completed prior to July 7) should help with traffic flow. The base intends to fulfill all bargaining obligations with the union.

Prior to the final gate closure, signs will be posted near the gate and reminders will be published in the Hilltop Times and on the base’s website.

Here are the remaining gate hours:

South Gate: 24/7

Roy Gate 24/7

West Gate 4 a.m.-8 p.m. Monday through Friday