A new, non-exclusive agreement will soon open Fort Leonard Wood's taxi service to competition from anyone possessing a valid chauffeur driver's license from the state of Missouri.
The previous agreement was exclusive to one taxi company.
"By allowing multiple companies to operate on the installation, we hope to improve the service to our military community," said Megan O'Donoghue, Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation service and support division director.
Applications for the new permit will be accepted starting Dec. 9, and permits will be in effect starting Jan. 1. Taxi companies can pay for their permit at the MWR warehouse (2347 Louisiana Ave.).
Applicants will be charged an annual fee of $25 per vehicle for the permit. Payments can be made by check, payable to IMWRF, or credit card at the time of acceptance of their application.
"By offering the monthly payment options, companies that have never operated on the installation may use this as an opportunity to test the waters," O'Donoghue said.
Just as before, the new permit is solely for the vehicle. All drivers must be vetted through regular post entrance security procedures, with FMWR as the sponsor.
Drivers must possess a valid license from the state of Missouri to operate as a motor carrier for the classes and types of services authorized on Fort Leonard Wood, such as Uber and Lyft vehicles wanting to operate on the installation as well as airport shuttles. In addition, they must be able to present proof of insurance and registration as well as the license plate and cab number of any vehicles to be permitted.
Anyone seeking a permit to operate a taxi on the post must also ensure any taxi vehicles are less than eight years old, are four-door sedans of a uniform color, and are capable of transporting at least four passengers in addition to the driver, as designed by the manufacturer.
If a company has a permit to operate on the installation they must be willing and able to pick up any and all patrons with no discrimination.
"It's a large post, and we want everyone who's willing to pay for a taxi to be able to get one," O'Donoghue said. "Even out to some of the more remote areas here."
For more information on the new permits, call 573.596.0118.
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