Ames to consider south airport parking lot contract; runway upgrade planned

Mayor John Haila told the podcast that bids have been received for a south parking lot expansion at the municipal airport and that the city is considering awarding a contract for "a little less than $400,000," subject to receipt of a federal grant.

"A contract is being considered to be awarded for a little less than $400,000 subject to the receipt of a federal grant," Haila said, noting many airport projects are funded in part by the Federal Aviation Administration. He described the airport as an important community amenity that helps attract businesses, industry, and visitors, including athletic teams.

Haila also recalled prior council discussion about replacing the main runway to increase pavement thickness and address undulations so heavier charter aircraft can operate safely. He said the runway work aims to improve pavement condition and allow some larger planes to land; the podcast did not include engineering specifications or a funding schedule for the runway project.

The mayor said some south parking-lot work is already underway and that fencing and other recent improvements at the airport have completed. The parking-lot contract and any federal grant awards will be considered by the council during the June 9 meeting packet.