HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. – A shuttle service operated by the 66th Logistics Readiness Squadron here has eliminated more than 700 individual commutes since the beginning of the year.
The service has reduced travel times and alleviated stress for Hanscom AFB commuters.
“The shuttle service has saved me over 30 minutes on my commute to Hanscom AFB,” said Floride Noelsaint, contracting specialist at Hanscom AFB, who travels from Cambridge, Massachusetts. “It’s made a huge difference in my daily routine.”
The service for military and civilian federal employees and defense contractors operates between Hanscom AFB and the Concord Commuter Rail Station.
Military and civilian federal employees may be eligible to receive a $315 monthly stipend to assist with covering the costs of the Boston-area subways and Commuter Rail.
The service offers three morning runs departing the Concord station at 6:30, 7:30, and 8:30 a.m., and three afternoon runs departing the base at 2:30, 3:30, and 4:30 p.m. The morning pickups are timed to accommodate incoming trains, ensuring no passenger is left behind.
Juan Leal, 66 LRS Vehicle Operations Flight work leader, initially signed up to support the service but now enjoys the convenience it offers.
“It saves me from the frustration of sitting in traffic," he said.
Leal added that he also appreciates the reduced wear and tear on his vehicle and the opportunity to relax while coming to work.
The service, operating since May 2023, not only reduces the number of vehicles on the road but also promotes alternative transportation options for employees.
This initiative aligns with the 66th Air Base Group’s strategic goals to bolster resource management and enhance mission execution and readiness.
Noelsaint, who was hired during a May 2023 hiring event, spoke about the benefits of the service.
“Having access to a free shuttle service on base is a tremendous benefit,” she said. “It makes commuting much more manageable and stress-free.”
She added that the shuttle has also fostered a sense of community among the participants.
Tim Veen, LRS Deployment and Distribution Flight chief who oversees the service, emphasized the importance of riders registering and reserving their seats.
“We need people to register for the shuttle to ensure we are able to provide the service," he said.
Veen added that with increased ridership comes opportunities to expand service to other commuter stations, such as Alewife station in Cambridge, for example.
Additional details about the shuttle service, including registration, are available on the LRS CAC-enabled SharePoint site.
For more information on transit benefits, employees can contact the Hanscom AFB Commuter Program at 66abg.ceie.hanscomcommuters@us.af.mil.