Airport staff reports $6 million project bidding and readies Aviation Day event

Airport staff updated the Coffee Airport Authority that the initial bidding for a $6 million airport construction project is underway and that staff are working with state and federal partners to secure the full funding before a June deadline.

"Our first part of the $6 million project is on the street... I think it's 4th of April," Airport staff said, reporting the bid timeline and noting the package will require council action for final approval. Staff said they are asking partners to coordinate so the full $6 million can be available before the June draw deadline.

Board members pressed for a firm assurance that the money will be available in time; staff said they are actively coordinating and that the funding routing this cycle is unfamiliar at the state level, which has added complexity to the draw process.

Staff also briefed the board on Airport Day (April 23), describing planned exhibits and activities including aircraft displays, food vendors, musical entertainment and engine demonstrations. The event will feature a DC-3 and a variety of general-aviation aircraft, children’s activities and local vendors; staff said they hope for favorable weather and asked for board support.

Next steps: staff will report on bidding outcomes, monitor the grant draw timeline with state/federal partners and continue planning for Airport Day.