Sunday, April 21, 2002
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Sunday, April 21, 2002 |
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Feds to help Falcon Field growth with $1.05 million grant for land
By JOHN MUNFORD
A million dollar federal grant will help assure that Falcon Field will have plenty of room to grow in the future. The grant, announced by U.S. Rep. Mac Collins, will allow the Peachtree City Airport Authority to purchase the remaining land in the airport's business park, said Airport Manager Jim Savage. There are roughly 24.1 acres left in the business park, which is adjacent to Falcon Field, Savage said. All that property is owned by Peachtree City Holdings, Inc., a subsidiary of Pathway Communities. Property in the area has become more popular in recent months, and authority members were concerned that it could all be grabbed up before they could purchase adjacent land for future expansion. The land will be used for future hangar space, which provides extra income for the airport as it leases the property. "That way, we can get more money and become self-sustaining," Savage said, noting that the authority's master plan included acquiring the property for future growth. Currently, 150 aircraft are based at Falcon Field, with that number expected to double in the next 20 years. The authority is also trying to attract corporate jets to operate there, which also helps the airport's bottom line because it makes more of a profit with jet fuel sales than it does on regular aviation fuel. Before the $1.05 million grant can be spent, the property must be surveyed and appraised, Savage noted. Still, officials hope to begin working on the project as soon as possible. Savage said he would be contacting Pathway officials to work with them to acquire the property. "Obviously we're thrilled," Savage said. Collins said the funds will benefit the economy of the Third Congressional District, which he represents. "As the area surrounding the nation's busiest airport continues to grow, I am pleased that the FAA recognizes the need for resources for our regional airports and general aviation," Collins said.
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