The U.S. Army Garrison at Fort Detrick is changing entry procedures beginning this fall with the Army implementing an automated installation entry system at all gates. Once these procedures become operational, Army guards will scan identification cards before they allow entry to Fort Detrick.
This is similar to the automated entry system used at the NIH campus in Bethesda and Shady Grove. The changes are required to meet Executive Order HSPD-12 mandatory requirements for entry into federal facilities.
Since NIH-issued PIV cards are not compatible with the Army’s entry system, all NIH workers stationed at Fort Detrick (as well as NIH employees, contractors or affiliates with a PIV Card who require access to Fort Detrick) will need to obtain an Army-issued access card. NCI staff working on site or who are regular visitors are being advised to obtain their Army-issued card prior to system implementation.
The NCI at Frederick Communications Center recently alerted NCI workers to this change along with instructions on how to prepare for the transition to the new access cards.
Below are excerpts from this communication, including a number of helpful frequently asked questions and answers:
High Level Summary of Required Action
All NIH-issued PIV card holders who work at or regularly visit Fort Detrick must obtain a new access card to get on base.
- You need to get your new card by August 30, or, preferably, earlier.
- Your current PIV access card will NOT let you onto the base, starting as early as October, 2018.
- You must follow instructions on where, when, and how to obtain your new card. (see details below).
- Please read this entire e-mail carefully. Failing to follow the instructions may create access issues for you.
Please refer to the FAQ section immediately below for detailed information about this new policy.
