Laughlin's main gate set to close Published June 23, 2009 By Ron Scharven 47th Flying Training Wing public affairs LAUGHLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- Laughlin's Main Gate, located off Highway 90, and portions of Liberty Drive will close at 5 a.m. July 6. The closure is part of a three-phase construction project required to maintain a quality surface on Liberty Drive. During the first phase, the main gate will close for about six weeks signaling the start of construction. Approximately two weeks after construction begins the intersections at Liberty Drive and Arkansas Street and Liberty Drive and Mitchell Boulevard will close and remain closed until the construction is complete and able to handle vehicle loads. Signs will be posted to route vehicles around the detour. While the main gate is closed, all traffic entering or leaving the base will be routed through Laughlin's West Gate, located 1.7 miles off Highway 277 on Spur 317. Traffic delays can be expected during the peak hours from 6:30 to 8:30 a.m. and 3:30 to 5:30 p.m. In case an emergency response vehicle needs to get on base, all drivers in line will be expected to pull over to the shoulder of the road and let them pass. Once the first phase is complete, the main gate will re-open and different portions of Liberty Drive will undergo construction over a five-month period. Work on Liberty Drive will consist primarily of asphalt replacement, with the three-construction phases scheduled to be complete by November. More information will be provided as the construction phases progress.