JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD – Construction has begun on a new road and overpass project that will cross over Perimeter Road, which bisects JBLM Lewis Main and McChord Field, to link both sides of the joint base. Service members who work on either side of JBLM will more easily travel back-and-forth without needing to exit or enter security gates.
Phase I of the project, clearing trees from the projected construction path, is nearing completion.
McChord Field Commercial Vehicle Inspection Point (CVIP) closure June 23 – August 23
Phase II, the construction of bridges support pillars will begin June 23 and last through August 23. The eight-week phase will involve placing pillars to support the overpass. JBLM will close South Gate Road and the McChord Field Commercial Vehicle Inspection Point (CVIP) while the bridge pillars are built.
Commercial vehicles that normally enter the McChord Field CVIP will use the McChord Field North Gate, which is located at the intersection of South Tacoma Way and 112th Street. The North Gate will be open for commercial vehicle traffic daily from 5:45 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.
Phase II is expected to be done by August 23; however, all road construction and paving projects are weather dependent and subject to change.
Phase III, installation of support girders on the overpass pillars is scheduled to begin in the Fall of 2014. This will involve temporary lane closures on Perimeter Road and E. Lincoln Ave. for paving.
Phase IV, paving operations to connect the new road to Barnes Blvd., will be in the late Fall of 2014. There will be temporary lane closures on Barnes Blvd. with alternating one-direction of travel controlled by traffic flaggers. Detour signs will be setup in order to assist motorists around the closure areas.
The fifth and final phase of the project will occur during the winter months and consist of the finishing aspects of the project, such as curbing and lane striping. Project completion is set for the Spring of 2015.
JBLM officials will work to maintain the same level of service for drivers entering and exiting the base.
For more information, call the JBLM Public Affairs Office at (253) 967-0152 or (253) 967-0148. After regular duty hours, call (253) 967-0015 and ask for the JBLM public affairs officer on call.