Gate 2 repairs close outbound lanes Published Nov. 29, 2009 By 18th Wing Public Affairs KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- Outbound lanes at Gate 2 will be closed for lane repairs Nov. 30 - Dec. 10. According to Maj. Teri French, 18th Civil Engineer Squadron commander, the repair work is essential to maintain Kadena's security and force protection. "The existing tiger teeth that are in place on our outbound lanes have deteriorated to a point that replacement is prudent." Maj. French added that the upgraded system will be more robust and will be elevated to prevent water from accumulating, which is one of the main reasons the system deteriorated in the first place. "Although we make every attempt to prevent gate closures and minimize the impact to traffic flow, the planned outbound gate closures are essential to the well-being of those that live and work on Kadena." Gate 5 will be open while the outbound lanes at Gate 2 are closed, though officials ask that commuters avoid the gate as much as possible during peak hours in the morning and afternoon, when students are going to and from school.