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Main Gate Re-opens at Naval Base San Diego

Navy NewsStand

Story Number: NNS100421-02
4/21/2010

By Maile Y. Baca, Naval Base San Diego Public Affairs

SAN DIEGO (NNS) -- Naval Base San Diego (NBSD) re-opened its main gate at a ceremony April 20 after completing 10 months worth of vital upgrades.

The work was completed by Allen Engineering Contractor, Inc. in partnership with Naval Facilities Engineering Command Southwest and NBSD.

The gate, which closed July 19, 2009, was completed with military construction money at a cost of $2.655 million. The project was completed ahead of schedule even with the late winter rain storms in San Diego.

"We couldn't be happier with the outcome," stated Capt. Rick Williamson, NBSD's commanding officer. "Not only is the use of space more traffic efficient, it provides shelter from the elements for our guards and is a welcoming statement when entering the base."

The upgrades to the gate include increased traffic capacity, improved and upgraded security enhancements and environmental initiatives such as artificial grass and beautification projects that require low water and maintenance.

The project's new design incorporates a double-lane traffic circle in place of the old three-way stop, a new guard shack, weather elements, and a large shade shelter, which provides protection for the gate sentries from traffic.

At the ceremony, the gate was named in honor of Fleet Adm. Chester W. Nimitz, who was commanding officer of the base when it was known as Destroyer Base San Diego from 1931 until 1933.

"When deciding on who the gate would be named after, we couldn't have thought of a better person. He not only made an impact on this base, but on the Navy and history," said Cmdr. Vince Garcia, executive officer of NBSD.

"We currently have 58 ships and over 120 shore commands that call Naval Base San Diego home, and we're growing. We are thinking ahead and doing the best we can to prepare our infrastructure for the future ships, commands and all the Sailors and families that will be homeported here," said Williamson.