Quantico to use scanners for security screenings at base gates

Those coming aboard Quantico Marine Corps Base will have their IDs scanned beginning in January.

The new security measure comes as Quantico upgrades the equipment and processes used at the base’s entrance gates. A new system called RAPIDGate will be installed, and everyone entering the base — including visitors to Quantico Town — will have their IDs scanned with electronic security scanners.

Once scanned, the information on the ID is entered into a computer system and then reviewed in the RAPIDGate database. The security check will alert guards at the gate if the person is on a terrorist watchlist, a debarment list, or if they’ve had their privileges revoked.

The types of IDs that will be accepted at the gate include include common access cards, transportation worker identification card, TESLIN brand ID cards, and state drivers licenses.

“These changes to our access control procedures will improve the installation’s overall security posture, though the process will require additional time at the gates to scan each credential. Consequently, there may be minor delays associated with the implementation of this system.” said Lance Hunziker, Quantico Marine Corps Base critical infrastructure protection manager.

The new system cannot solve all of the base’s securtiy challenges.

“Automated access control systems are not new to the Marine Corps. Marine Corps Installations Command chose to deploy RAPIDGate as an interim solution, because until recently, the technology had not been developed that met all DoD guidelines,” said Pete Russett, director installation protection branch, Marine Corps Installations National Capital Region.

“Though not the final solution for automated access control, this system fills a gap in security and provides us with more capabilities than we currently have.”

Vendors, especially those who makes deliveries to the base, can enroll in the RAPIDGate program.

Here’s more in a press release:

Rollout of the RAPIDGate program and equipment has been funded through Marine Corps Installations Command. Contractors, venders, and service providers interested in using the RAPIDGate system are responsible for registration and signup cost. The base policy states that all commercial vehicles (box-truck size and larger), not enrolled in RAPIDGate, shall continue to utilize a one-time pass granted to each vehicle after completing a security inspection.

Contractors who choose to participate in the voluntary program will receive a CAC-like (Personal Identity Verification Interoperable, PIV-I) credential. This credential will allow them to be instantly checked at the gates and granted access, while avoiding the requirement for a vehicle inspection. The cost associated with enrollment and participation in the RAPIDGate program will be borne by the contractor.

Vendors, suppliers and service providers are a large part of traffic coming aboard the base. Those who regularly access the base will receive a letter explaining the details about use and enrollment into RAPIDGate.

Access control procedures and inspections for large commercial vehicles currently take place at the commercial vehicle inspection lot adjacent to the Ponderosa-Y Gate. Operators of commercial vehicles can voluntarily apply for a RAPIDGate long-term access pass to streamline the inspection process and speed access onto the installation.

The new RAPIDGate system is expected to be in place Jan. 11, 2016.