FORT BENNING, Ga., (Sept. 30, 2015) -- Starting Oct. 5, the updated Automated Installation Entry system at all Fort Benning access control points will enter an operational testing phase.
Over the past few weeks new pedestals with scanners were installed in every lane at each ACP and gate guards have been trained on the new system.
"The system at the gate was actually installed several years ago, but it was the older system and at the time it didn't quite work - the system didn't do what we needed it to," said Jim Webster, chief of Physical Security for the Directorate of Emergency Services "But (the Army) has upgraded the system and is retrofitting the old equipment."
The current handheld system will be switched over to a combination handheld and pedestal system. The new system validates credentials against a central database, and gives an instantaneous look at whether the credential is valid or whether that person is authorized to be on the installation, said Webster.
"For the most part it is used for authorized personnel and folks who are registered in the system - people who live and work on post," Webster said. "But we have a large visitor population at Fort Benning, and this new system will work to get them into the system via a pass or credential they can scan at the gate."
During nonpeak hours, drivers will scan common access cardholder and Family members scan their identification cards. The gate arms will be in use. The slow introduction of the new procedures will help mitigate any issues that might arise, and allow bugs and timing to be worked out, Webster said.
"We want to get the system fully tested while we have the experts on site to make any adjustments and fix any issues," Webster said.
Although the new system allows single riders quicker access to the installation, the requirements for a guard at each lane and a 100 percent ID check is still in place, Webster said.
"If we have more than one person in a vehicle, their ID still has to be checked - we are not getting away from the current protection policies," Webster said. "Our eventual goal is for the guards to move more towards the booth so single cars can move faster, but the guards will still be there to assist and scan a second rider's ID and so forth."
Webster said that he is looking forward to the new system.
"The upgrades and new security measure are a huge plus for everyone on the installation, and the additional tools it gives us due to the huge visitor population allows us a wider range of tools to assist them and provide security," Webster said. "It's a great system and it helps to improve the overall security of the installation for everybody."
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