JOINT BASE MYER-HENDERSON HALL, Va. – In collaboration with Uber, JBM-HH Garrison leadership has approved a new initiative permitting rideshare services to operate on Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall and Fort McNair starting Sept. 12.
The decision, announced earlier this week, opens a new avenue of transportation options for service members, families, and civilians to access convenient, on-base transportation while still maintaining a high level of safety and security.
“This program aligns with our commitment to raise the quality of life for our service members and families,” said Col. Keith Sandoval, JBM-HH garrison commander. “We were able to do this without compromising the current security procedures in place, so this is a very exciting option for those looking to travel on and off the installation.”
Sandoval added that the program would be subject to ongoing evaluation and could be adjusted or halted if security or operational concerns arise.
The rideshare options on both JBM-HH and Fort McNair are available through Uber’s standard application. However, instead of choosing an address for pickup or drop off, base officials have selected ten rideshare locations on Myer and Henderson Hall and seven on McNair. These locations have been specifically chosen for their proximity to housing, work, and barracks, while not sacrificing the safety and security of installation residents.
According to Tracie Miller, JBM-HH chief of physical security, all Uber drivers participating in the program have met stringent security requirements to operate on the installation. This includes background checks and a clear understanding of installation safety protocols.
“In addition to the vetting, Uber drivers will have to show a pending rideshare transaction to the gate security personnel to include the drop-off or pick-up point and the name of the customer,” Miller said. “Our security team has the authority to verify the transaction with the customer or Uber at any time.”
Uber rideshare providers who have passed all eligibility criteria have been issued a rideshare-identified Automated Installation Entry (AIE) pass for a period of up to six months, after which the driver will have to reapply for installation access. All drivers with an issued AIE pass will be granted access only through Hatfield Gate on Myer or 2nd Street SW Gate on McNair.
Currently, Uber is the only rideshare eligible for the six-month AIE pass. However, this does stop other rideshare companies and taxis from entering the installation, as long as they go through the Visitor Control Center during operating hours or are vetted in the search lane. These drivers will only get a 24-hour pass with sponsorship and/or advance notification.
Uber rideshare is one of several options designed to alleviate traffic and parking issues on the installation, including the Myer Flyer. The program is specifically designed for service members and families when there are limited shuttle services available. For example, a service member working the late-night shift work or a family returning from a night out on the town. In the past, rideshare companies and taxis would often drop off their passengers at the gate. Now, those with an AIE pass can enter the installation.
“Traffic can be a nightmare in the DMV,” said Amanda Varnam, action officer for the JBM-HH rideshare program. “This is a great option for those families who live and work on the installation who need a ride. I’m truly excited that after several years of work by the entire garrison staff, this program is officially launched.”
Currently, the program only includes a rideshare option. Base officials and Uber are working on the next step of the initiative: food/grocery delivery services.
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