HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – Officials from the 66th Air Base Group and 66th Security Forces Squadron are working to develop a ride-share program here by granting base access to vetted drivers.
The program will allow base personnel the option to utilize Uber ride-shares for transportation to and from the installation.
“This is a great way to keep our Airmen and families connected to the local community while also ensuring we have safe and reliable transportation for our people,” said Col. Taona Enriquez, installation commander, during a recent commander’s call at the conference center.
The effort will be Hanscom’s first base-sponsored rideshare for unofficial travel.
According to senior defenders, 66 SFS must vet and register a minimum of 100 drivers before debuting the program.
“This number was thought through with leaders here to ensure we have a large enough pool of drivers available prior to opening it up to base patrons,” said Master Sgt. Kenneth Souheaver, 66 SFS Plans and Programs section chief.
The opportunity to be vetted for base access is available to any person registered as an Uber driver. Once employment is confirmed, additional steps will be provided through the Uber app to apply for the Hanscom ride-share as well as instructions on how to be cleared for an ID here.
Drivers who already have base access, such as service members, dependents, or retirees, must receive a separate credential specific to their role as a driver. Passengers arriving at the installation must also have their own base access credentials or a base sponsor.
“It is a way for our defenders to keep accountability of who is accessing the base for this program and ensure anyone accessing our installation has a valid need to be here,” said Souheaver.
Souheaver said he anticipates longer wait times in the early steps of the program.
Entry controllers will continue to vet and certify personnel until the 100-driver quota is met, with hopes to continue growing the number of available drivers to service Hanscom patrons.
“We’re looking forward to helping provide this service for the community,” said Souheaver.
For additional information, contact the 66 SFS Visitor Control Center at 781-225-6642.
(Editor’s Note: No federal endorsement intended.)