The Iowa National Guard’s 83-acre facility near Des Moines has a new entry way designed to prevent terrorist attacks. Guard officials spent $1.5 million in federal money to enhance security measures at the main entrance to Camp Dodge in Johnston.
Adjutant General Tim Orr says the most noticeable change involves the roadway. It’s no longer a straight route. “You go through what they call a serpentine drive. And that serpentine drive has cables that are established on the side so you can’t just shoot through straight,” Orr said. “It controls your speed, it controls the flow of traffic.” The other changes include additional fencing, cables, barriers, guard booths and gates.
“If somebody did run through the security, did run high speed, we can raise the gates,” Orr said. “So it’s a constant series of measures to stop, but it prevents anyone from going at a high rate of speed straight into Camp Dodge.” The new gate brings the Iowa Guard into compliance with current national antiterrorism measures.
Orr says he believes Camp Dodge – with its 7,200 soldiers – is now among the most secure military facilities in the country.