“Several months ago we were contacted by Congressman (Larry) Kissell’s office and asked for a list of needs at our airport and they were submitted to his office for consideration” said Richmond County Community Services Director B.K. Jones. “We would like to extend the runway safety area.”
According to Jones, the total project cost is estimated as $665,073. Kissell has earmarked it for $400,000 in the Fiscal Year 2010 Transportation, Housing and Urban Development Appropriations Bill.
“This project will help Richmond County Airport continue those important services and provide updated safety to its customers,” said Kissell.
A general aviation facility, Richmond County Airport provides jet and 100-octane fuel, as well as tie-down spaces for long-term or overnight stays. Newly-constructed hangars are available for lease, and the terminal itself includes a pilot’s lounge with a private bathroom and shower.
Kissell has also signed on to a similar piece of legislation aimed to protect airports like Richmond County’s - the Small Airport Relief Act of 2009.
“Regional airports are vital to our communities,” said Kissell. “Richmond County Airport provides an extremely important service to our local industries while helping to spur economic development by attracting more businesses.”
Jones received the hopeful news last week, just as the airport was being readied for the start of a separate $800,000 runway-paving project, which is funded 90 percent by the North Carolina Department of Transportation, 10 percent by the county.
While that particular project won’t be affected by the state budget crisis, Jones said he cannot be certain of future state funding until the budget is finalized.
“The overall economic situation may affect some funding,” said Jones. “But we haven’t noticed an effect yet.”
While the federal money has been authorized and appropriated as part of the House HUD bill, It must now go to full House for a vote, and then on to the Senate.
“One thing to note since this is coming from HUD money there will probably be housing or income issues tied to the money,” said Jones. “The full extent of the requirements we will have to meet to receive the money will not be known until the official letter and supporting documentation is received by us.”
According to Kissell spokesperson Haven Kerchner, the Transportation, HUD appropriations bill should be on the floor within the next two weeks. According to the House Committee on Appropriations, Americans spend an average of 52 percent of their income on housing and transportation.
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