Maxwell Boulevard to be reduced to two lanes Published Aug. 24, 2010 By Carl Bergquist Air University Public Affairs MAXWELL AIR FORCE BASE, Ala. -- Beginning Sunday, traffic flow on Maxwell Boulevard will be reduced to two lanes. The action is part of the ongoing Alabama Department of Transportation renovation and widening of Maxwell Boulevard to six lanes. The reduction to two lanes, one west bound and one east bound, is projected to last about six months. "Our intention is to ensure traffic flow is safe with as little inconvenience as possible," said Col. Chris Sharpe, 42nd Air Base Wing vice commander. For traffic moving toward Maxwell Air Force Base from downtown, the road will narrow to the two south lanes at the point where Maxwell Boulevard crosses the railroad tracks adjacent to Interstate 65. Motorists will use what is currently the eastbound left lane heading from Maxwell AFB into downtown Montgomery to move west. The right lane will continue to handle traffic moving east into downtown. This traffic configuration will continue until vehicles reach the base's Maxwell Boulevard gate. Inbound entrance to the gate and the road past the gate heading toward Prattville, which becomes Bell Street, will maintain normal flow, but the gate's outbound traffic flow will be reduced to a single lane. The 42nd Security Forces Squadron NCO in charge of Police Services advises motorists to be prepared for some changes in their travel schedule. "Impending construction on Maxwell Boulevard will affect travelers utilizing this road," Master Sgt. Rico Harvey said. "Please plan accordingly, and be prepared for slight disruptions in travel times." He said it is advisable to allow about 30 minutes additional time to get to work, and it might be prudent to use either the Day Street or Kelly Street gates when possible. The Day Street gate hours are 6 a.m. to 10 p.m. seven days a week. Kelly Street Gate is open 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday-Friday. "Also, car pooling and having your credentials ready when you arrive at the gate will help speed up traffic flow onto the base," Sergeant Harvey said. He said during the initial implementation of the traffic change, 42nd SFS members and Montgomery Police officers will be available to assist drivers.