US Army to Allow Uber and Lyft on Base: Improving Transportation for Soldiers

In an effort to enhance mobility options for military personnel, the US Army plans to provide Uber and Lyft drivers access to select military bases.

Starting Monday, a new pilot program in collaboration with ride-sharing giants Uber and Lyft will seek to increase the number of drivers permitted to enter six Army installations. This initiative aims not only to bolster driving opportunities but also to better transport services for troops both on and off these bases.

Typically, entry to military bases has been restricted to military members, their families, and government officials. However, under the new program, drivers without governmental ties can now apply for base access.

Testing Grounds

Originally set for a trial period of two months, the pilot will concentrate on six Army sites harboring over 600,000 military members, families, and staff. These locations include Fort Bliss in Texas, North Carolina's Fort Bragg, Washington's Joint Base Lewis-McChord, and three bases across Hawaii. Should it succeed, the Army foresees extending this project to more than 20 bases.

Sergeant Major of the Army Michael Weimer expressed the Army's ambition to partner with the ride-share industry in simplifying transportation to and around camps and installations. He acknowledged ongoing challenges in coordinating transportation and affirmed the Army's commitment to resolving these issues.

Addressing Transportation Needs

Many military centers are positioned in remote areas beyond major metro regions, providing minimal public transit options. This situation poses travel challenges, particularly for junior enlisted members who might not have personal vehicles. The collaboration with ride-share companies aims to furnish soldiers and their families with trustworthy and convenient travel solutions that cater to their unique requirements.

Army Secretary Dan Driscoll emphasized the potential benefits to soldiers' quality of life due to this partnership.

Operational Logistics

Qualified Uber and Lyft drivers will be issued base access credentials, in either digital or physical form, although their entry relies on a genuine work-related necessity. To gain entry, drivers must present ride requests on their phones at base gates, proving the rider has the necessary access.

Drivers must undergo a stringent vetting process, including an in-person background check typically conducted at the military base's visitor center.

Economic Opportunities

The pilot could open new economic avenues for base personnel inclined towards the gig economy via ride-share income. The companies are contemplating engaging in a military-centric recruitment effort to support on-base employment growth.

This initiative comes amid some ride-share drivers advocating for permanent employment status, which would afford them better rights and benefits. However, staying as contractors allows drivers to reject trips and manage their own schedules.

Pilot Progress and Prospects

Insights from the initial six test sites will be utilized to modify and potentially broaden the program.

While regarded as the most extensive Department of Defense endeavor to advance transportation options for military members, past smaller-scale collaborations have occurred. Bases like Joint Base San Antonio and specific southern California Navy bases have tried partnerships with different companies in an ad hoc manner.