Marine Corps Base Quantico -- Beginning Saturday, Marines will find it easier to get around base on the weekends, thanks to a new shuttle service run by the Single Marine Program. The shuttle service was inspired by the desire of base commander Col. David W. Maxwell to meet the needs of Marines on the west side of base, particularly those who are not authorized to keep vehicles on base.
According to SMP Coordinator Michael Moore, the shuttle — a 12-passenger van — will operate between 10 a.m. and 7 p.m., Saturdays and Sundays. It will travel between the SMP house, Little Hall, Officer Candidates School, Marine Corps Air Facility, Austin Hall at The Basic School, the Weapons Training Battalion exchange, and the mainside exchange. On Sundays, the shuttle will also visit the base chapel for church services. Moore said the shuttle will typically run the route 6–8 times per day, though there is a surge plan that can be implemented in times of high demand, such as when student populations are at an increased level.
The shuttle will initially have placards in the front and back windows to identify it to Marines, though Moore said plans are in the works to purchase magnetic signs for the sides of the vehicle to make it more noticeable. The shuttle schedule will be published on the SMP Facebook page and website before the start date.
— Writer: ebaker@quanticosentryonline.com