for the community by increasing the number of visitors close to the river
front. However, this increase in visitors along the uncontrolled perimeter
has the potential to increase opportunities for security and force protection
concerns.
ISSUE
AT‐2
Compatibility Assessment
The United Facilities Criteria (UFC) 4‐022‐03: Security Engineering: Fences,
Gates and Guard Facilities document identifies and defines natural
boundaries, which includes water bodies, densely wooded areas, and rough
terrain as a barrier for providing protection to a restricted area. However, it
further states that security fences around the perimeter of military
installations can assist in preventing unauthorized persons from entering
installation boundaries by serving as both a physical and psychological
barrier.
While it may be adequate to rely on natural barriers in certain areas, it may
not be adequate for other areas that are more developed or susceptible to
perimeter breaches due to the environment’s opportunity.
Abandoned Department of Corrections Facility Outside
Gunter Annex
The abandoned Department of Corrections facility adjacent
to Gunter Annex poses risk to installation security. The
property contains abandoned structures and debris in an
unsecured environment which increases concern for
potential security breaches.
There is an old Alabama State Department of Corrections property located
just south of EPA Road and west of the intersection of Morris Avenue and
Spaatz Street near the northwest corner of Gunter Annex. While separated
from Gunter Annex by a chain‐link fence, the property is currently owned by
the State and contains several abandoned structures, scattered debris, and
has some overgrowth. The structures on the property have fallen into
disrepair, and no longer provide value for the community.
Findings
UFC 4‐022‐03 defines natural barriers; however, it may not be
adequate to rely on natural barriers in certain areas.
Potential increases in visitors to this area due to increased
opportunities for economic activity can increase AT/FP concerns for
the base.
State‐owned property with abandoned structures
Page 5‐8
Background Report
June 2017