Since the post went on heightened security after terrorist attacks in New York and Washington, taxi service for soldiers has become limited and at times shut down completely.

Marla Jones, a fort spokeswoman, said the 90-day contract with Radio Cab would provide much-needed transportation while allowing officials to know exactly who is on base.

''We have to have controls,'' she said.

Right after the Sept. 11 attacks, Fort Gordon increased security measures and did not allow visitors to enter. For several days, taxis had to stop at the main gate to drop off passengers.

The temporary contract, which went into effect Friday morning, comes at a time when base officials are trying to draw up a permanent deal for taxi service.

In July, Radio Cab decided not to renew its contract with Fort Gordon. At the time, the company's general manager, David Fields, said the fort was not enforcing the company's exclusive rights to cruise the post.

Since then, several independent taxi companies have benefited from the increased access to military passengers.

But now that the base has once again closed to the independent companies, Glenn Hall, the owner of Signal Cab, said this will be his last weekend in operation.

''Unless a miracle happens, I have no choice but to shut down,'' he said. ''Without Fort Gordon, I can't survive.''

Even when Radio Cab held the permanent contract, Mr. Hall and other independent drivers were allowed to pick up passengers who specifically called them from Fort Gordon.

With the new, stricter regulations, independent cabs without passengers will not be allowed on post, Ms. Jones said. And those with passengers will have to stop at the main entrance, where a guard will search their cars and take down license information. The drivers will have 20 minutes once inside to drop off passengers.

Reach Vicky Eckenrode at (706) 823-3227 or vicky.eckenrode@augustachronicle.com.