EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- The Haul Road commercial gate opened with a ribbon-cutting ceremony here May 31. Commercial vehicles can now use the gate to enter the base.
Construction for the $4.8 million project began in July 2021 and was completed in March 2023.
“This facility represents an essential line of defense where we meticulously inspect commercial vehicles and their cargo to mitigate potential risks and ensure compliance with the stringent regulations set forth by the Air Force,” said Dale Marks, 96th Test Wing vice-director. “Our primary objective is the safety and security of our base, its personnel and the surrounding communities.”
The Haul Road commercial gate is in place to vet commercial vehicles carrying non-munition laden cargo. All arms, ammunitions and explosives vehicles will need to contact the Emergency Communications Center with a 30 minute to one-hour arrival notification, and report to the North Gate as usual.
The gate entrance is located across the street from the Air Force Armament Museum entrance on Lewis Turner Blvd, also known as Highway 189.
Upon entering the gate, commercial vehicles will use the two left lanes and drive approximately one-quarter mile to the Haul Road commercial vehicle inspection facility.
Drivers must possess a valid driver’s license, valid installation access credentials and a cargo list. If a driver does not have valid credentials, they will need to be sponsored onto the installation by the recipient of the shipment.
“Our work here is not just about vehicles passing through, but about the lives we protect, the missions we support, and the legacy we leave behind,” Marks said. “By upholding the highest standards of excellence, we not only safeguard our base and its personnel, but also contribute to the strength of our nation and the protection of our freedoms.”
The gate’s hours of operation are Mondays - Fridays from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturdays from 6 a.m. to noon. The gate is closed on Sundays and holidays. For more information, call 882-5238.