CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. (AP) -- The Marine Corps says traffic on a state highway that runs through Camp Lejeune will be restricted beginning April 2.
Base officials say allowing only vehicles with Department of Defense decals to pass through on NC 172 will help increase security on the base. The restriction will remain in effect indefinitely.
The highway has become a popular coastal shortcut between Bear Creek, a town north of the base, to Sneads Ferry, a town about 20 miles south. Base officials say closing the highway could affect up to a thousand civilian drivers daily.
Visitors can get temporary base passes, but all traffic without business at the base will be redirected through Jacksonville on US 17, and NC 24 and 210.
Base officials say the access rules are a part of several security enhancements being implemented at Camp Lejeune following 9/11. Other steps include redesigned gates, upgraded lighting and camera systems, and response plans for attacks.
(Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
