The Arkansas Passport Center in Hot Springs, a mega-processing facility operated by the Department of State (DOS), officially opened its public counters on October 26, 2009. This expansion, funded by the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, allows Arkansas residents and those in surrounding areas to apply for passports in person, especially those with urgent travel needs.
Expedited Passport Services in Hot Springs, Arkansas
The Arkansas Passport Center, located at 191 Office Park Drive in Hot Springs, has been operational since 2007 and has produced over 30 million passports. Previously closed to the public, the center focused solely on passport printing. The newly added public counters signify a major shift, enabling the facility to offer expedited passport services directly to citizens. With over 230 employees, the center is equipped to handle the increased demand for passport processing. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was hosted by Under Secretary of State for Management Patrick F. Kennedy and attended by members of Congress, state and local officials, community leaders, and media representatives.
Increased Demand for Passport Services Nationwide
The opening of the Arkansas Passport Center’s public counters comes amidst a nationwide surge in passport applications due to recent changes in travel document requirements. To address this growing demand, the Department of State has been strategically expanding its passport services across the country. The opening of the Buffalo Passport Agency earlier in October 2009 marked the beginning of this initiative. Furthermore, the Department of State has plans to open additional passport agencies in Atlanta, Georgia; San Diego, California; El Paso, Texas; and St. Albans, Vermont within the following six months. Public counters were also recently added to the existing passport center in Portsmouth, New Hampshire. The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 has provided the necessary funding for these expansion projects.
Applying for Urgent Passport Services at the Arkansas Passport Center
Individuals with urgent travel needs requiring a passport can schedule an appointment at the Arkansas Passport Center or other regional passport agencies by calling 1-877-487-2778. Appointments are recommended to ensure timely processing.
CGI Federal Inc.’s Role in Passport Services
CGI Federal Inc. plays a crucial role in supporting the Department of State’s passport operations at the Arkansas Passport Center and nationwide. They provide passport application processing services, technology support, and logistics support. CGI’s partnership with the State Department began in 1992 at the National Passport Center in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and has continued to expand over the years. This long-standing collaboration ensures efficient and reliable passport processing for American citizens.
The expansion of passport services in Hot Springs, Arkansas, reflects the Department of State’s commitment to meeting the increasing demand for passports and providing convenient access for citizens in need of these essential travel documents. The Arkansas Passport Center now serves as a vital resource for individuals seeking timely and efficient passport processing in the region.
