Traffic congestion can be significant on Joint Base Lewis-McChord at key points in the day. By taking advantage of the GO Lewis-McChord programs — GO Transit, GO Bike and GO Rideshare — you can save time and money and reduce your impact on the environment.

Driving a personal vehicle on base is a popular method of getting around, but it is not always efficient, and, of course, finding parking can be a hassle.

Getting Around

You may have noticed vans driving around JBLM with GO Transit signs. GO Transit is a free transit system that travels between the main areas around base. The system is available to everyone on JBLM, so consider trying GO Transit on your next trip to the two JBLM exchanges, a gym or a dining facility.

To use GO Transit, visit GOLewisMcChord.com or download the free phone app, OneBusAway, to find the stop closest to you and view the schedule. Once you arrive at the GO Transit stop, stand within five feet of the stop — you may want to give the driver a little wave, especially in low-visibility situations.

When you board, tell the driver what stop you want to go to. If your destination requires a transfer, the driver will communicate with the other vehicles to ensure you easily get to the next vehicle.

In addition to on-base transportation options, GO Transit also connects with two off-base locations. Ride GO Transit to these off-base locations, or get back onto JBLM by using GO Transit from these spots.

The 512 Park-and-Ride in Lakewood provides connections with public transportation to SeaTac Airport, Seattle, Lakewood Town Center, Olympia, Lacey and Tacoma. The GO Transit DuPont stop, located in front of the Best Western Liberty Inn, provides access to restaurants and businesses in downtown DuPont as well as weekday connections with public transportation to Tacoma and Seattle.

Good Exercise

GO Bikes offers an alternative mode of transportation that is perfect for the spring. This free bike share option allows you to get your exercise and travel at the same time.

Bikes are available to active-duty service members, family members 18 or older, contractors and Department of Defense employees. There are six locations to check out a GO Bike. Visit GOLewisMcChord.com to view the locations.

Rideshare Help

If you live off-base, consider commuting with others in a free vanpool with GO Rideshare. Commutes need to be 10 or more miles, and it only takes three riders to start a vanpool.

Visit GOLewisMcChord.com to contact a vanpool coordinator and learn how to join or start a vanpool.

If you have any questions about the GO Lewis-McChord programs, call 253-966-3939.

For more information, visit Facebook.com/GOLewisMcChord or GOLewisMcChord.com.