State, county officials host ceremony for South Gate improvement project

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Nicole Leidholm
  • 60th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs

TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – State and county officials held a ribbon cutting June 3 for the Travis Air Force Base South Gate Safety Improvement Project at the Lambrecht Sports Complex in Suisun City, California.

 

The $3.1 million federal earmark-funded project, which was planned more than 12 years ago, was completed May 19, and improves the safety and reliability of the south gate entrance by creating a truck-queueing lane adjacent to the two travel lanes and connects the south gate to the Jepson Parkway.

 

Community leaders had the opportunity to talk about the project, thanked those who completed the project and talked about the important partnership between Travis and the local community.

 

Rep. John Garamendi, D-Calif., highlighted the importance of the project for the community and for Travis.

 

“This Air Force base, Travis Air Force Base, is the key,” said Garamendi. “By securing this area for no encroachment and providing the support, we have provided the foundation that Travis’ future is secure. Travis is now, and will be in the future, the Gateway to the Pacific.”

 

Solano County Supervisor Jim Spering, added that the theme is about working together.

 

“The (Solano Transportation Authority), the city and the county are dedicated to meeting the needs of Travis Air Force Base,” said Spering. “All of us know the important role this base plays in our community. It’s really woven into who we are here in Solano County. We understand the important mission Travis plays in the protection of this country. Travis Air Force Base plays a big role and we have responsibility to support Travis and see that they have the access and infrastructure to complete that mission.”

 

Finally, Lt. Col. Michael Tiemann, 60th Mission Support Group deputy commander, thanked the community for the improved road and the continued partnership.

 

“We’re the benefactors of this project and what it represents to the community, the base and to the world – it is a lifeline,” Tiemann said. “It’s not just a road. It’s important to the greater cause around the world.”

 

Tiemann went on to explain that when Super Storm Sandy devastated the East Coast, the road was used to bring in Pacific Gas and Electric trucks and equipment to support the relief efforts there to help them recover.

 

“We’re extremely grateful,” said Tiemann. “It is truly a lifeline that supports a greater cause and a greater mission than just Travis Air Force Base. Any time you see a plane taking off that has cargo on it, it came through this lifeline. It’s truly a signal to the United States of America and it’s truly a signal to the world that Travis Air Force Base is America’s first choice. We are the benefactors and this lifeline will continue to provide all that is needed around the world and day to day.”