Project Overview

Professional Systems Engineering, LLC (PSE) provided engineering services for the design of a new Air Side Gate Access Facility for in-flight food service vendors. The goal of this project is to improve security and correct inefficiencies and delays at the high-volume main gate where the majority of vehicles enter the airport. This project represents the application of perimeter and gate access standards developed by PSE for PHL. These standards enforce the remote monitoring of perimeter gates and implement gate and perimeter hardening in order to prevent airfield incursions. The gate systems are automatically controlled and designed to enforce PHL gate access procedures requiring local staff to verify credentials provided by all personnel prior to entering the facility.

This project also includes designing a control booth which houses both security and vehicle screening personnel. The gate facility is fully hardened and maintains a K-4 rating for all elements. The public street approaching the gate has been modified to prevent all attempts at forced vehicle entry. In addition to providing gate controls, access control, and video surveillance, PSE also provided a snow melt systems to ensure access the gate is available in all conditions and minimizes the potential of accidental damage to the crash barriers and gates.

PSE’s scope of work includes:
  • Surveys of existing gates areas
  • Determine legacy infrastructure including fiber, electrical, communications, ductbanks, etc.
  • Determine legacy security system (integration requirements including access control, CCTV, alarm monitoring, PLC networks, etc.
  • Investigate all existing service infrastructure including sewer, water, power, communications, and storm water
  • Review standards and codes
  • Generate narrative outlining of all findings and recommendations
  • Develop phasing plans for temporary access, construction, and system
  • Provide drawings of the proposed designs for gates areas
  • Provide narrative specifications
  • Screening Building will check for authorized credentials and will also include vehicle and personnel searches using back scatter x-ray technology and undercarriage video detection
  • Nuclear Materials will be screened
  • Pre-screening building will serve as the credential verifiers and providers for individuals requiring access into the airport operations area