The CSX rail line also crosses White Avenue near the White Avenue gate into
Keesler AFB. High levels of traffic on White Avenue positioned to enter or
exit the installation can result in vehicle stacking on or near the railroad
tracks, creating a potential hazard when trains approach. This could
increase risk to military personnel and civilians if a train related incident
occurred. This issue is also discussed under Issue RC‐1.
directing traffic away from White Avenue and the CSX rail line would reduce
the interface between vehicles and trains traversing the rail line, and the
potential for rail‐related incidences, there is still a concern for a perimeter
breach in the event of a rail incident.
Findings
The CSX rail line is located directly south and parallel to Keesler AFB
with trains running along this line daily.
In addition to commodities, these trains also carry hazardous cargo.
Potential derailments could compromise the security of the Keesler
AFB fence line and the safety of military personnel and civilians, as
well as expose the installation to hazardous materials.
The safety of rail at the crossing of White Street is also affected by
vehicular traffic stacking near the rail tracks outside the White Avenue
Gate.
Junction of CSX Railroad and Intersection of White Avenue / Irish Hill Drive near
Keesler AFB fence line and White Avenue Gate. Source: Google, May 2013
Compatibility Assessment
Unified Facilities Criteria (UFC) 4‐022‐01 provides guidelines for entry
control points at military installations. This guidance was developed and
revised as recently as 2005 making the current configuration of the White
Avenue gate an existing condition. To address compliance with current entry
design requirements, Keesler AFB and the City of Biloxi are partnering to
construct a new main gate at the terminus of Division Street and Keesler AFB
on the east side of the installation. The Division Street Gate would replace
the White Avenue Gate as the primary access to Keesler AFB. While
Background Report
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