B02.1 Introduction
To provide safe and reliable mobility to, from, and within Tyndall Air Force Base (AFB) all transportation elements must work together as a cohesive system. One of the guiding principles for creating the “Installation of the Future” at Tyndall AFB is to encourage alternatives to privately owned vehicle (POV) travel for short trips within the base. As with any system, its effectiveness is limited by its weakest element. A balanced mobility system must encompass all modes of transportation both within and around the base.
For Tyndall AFB, the integrated mobility system includes the following elements:
- Regional access between Tyndall AFB and the neighboring communities via U.S. Highway 98 (US 98)
- US 98 interchanges and intersections that facilitate access to Tyndall AFB
- Entry Control Facilities that provide base security and access for personnel, commercial deliveries, and visitors
- Hierarchy of Complete Streets for efficient and safe travel for all modes, and direct access to base parking areas and buildings
- Hierarchy of intersections to allow efficient and safe movement for all modes
- Multi-Modal Spine to encourage alternative transportation, largely separated from POV traffic, and providing convenient access and mobility for all modes (bicycle, pedestrian, and driver-operated or autonomous vehicle [AV] shuttles) between residential and mission areas on base
- Driveways that are strategically spaced based on good access management principles to balance convenience and safety
- Shared parking areas located and connected to maximize the use of parking, while minimizing unused impermeable cover
When well-planned and designed, the above elements provide safe and reliable mobility for the entire Tyndall Community.
A primary outcome of the integrated mobility plan is to contribute to a walkable, healthy Tyndall Community with less reliance on automobiles. This vision of a walkable and healthy installation is justified through the current rebuild master plan and the Defense Department Form 1391 packages that govern the reconstruction efforts. A main organizing element for the pedestrian circulation plan is a central Multi-Modal Spine, stretching across the majority of the Support and Flightline Districts. This tree-lined spine, in combination with a coherent, connected bikeway and pedestrian network, provides safe efficient routes for the base population to travel between the dormitories, Community Common, recreational amenities, base mission areas, and medical facilities. The result reduces the reliance on using POVs for common errands.