Commission reviews apron design, AIP wish list and t‑hangar options; Stantec expected at next meeting

Commissioners at the Rangeley Airport meeting reviewed several capital matters, including apron rehabilitation planning, the five‑year AIP project list and interest from private parties in tee hangars.

The chair noted the apron engineer estimate was about $330,000 and emphasized that figure was an engineer estimate, not a bid price. Joe said the apron regrind and design work are currently under design and that Dave (the engineer) is scheduled to attend the next meeting to present more detailed designs and cost projections.

Members stressed the importance of maintaining an updated five‑year AIP (Airport Improvement Program) listing and a current airport master plan to preserve eligibility for FAA and state DOT funding. Commissioners asked Joe to provide the Maine DOT/FAA listing and a copy of the older master plan at the next meeting for review.

The commission also discussed t‑hangar demand and funding. Ed said he has "4 or 5 people interested" in tee hangars but raised concerns that the town has not designated ground or infrastructure for them yet. Commissioners outlined two common paths: private construction of hangars with private owners responsible for the apron/ramp around buildings, or public/FAA funding for preparatory taxiway and site work — which can trigger prevailing‑wage requirements and add cost. One commissioner warned that FAA rules and town practice on who maintains ramps vary and can complicate public funding decisions.

Commissioners agreed to ask Stantec and the on‑contract engineer to attend future commission meetings regularly so members can review active engineering jobs, closeouts and the AIP wish list in more detail.