We Have Lift-off for New Airport

Friday, Oct. 17 is going to be a great day in St. George. I'll be at the groundbreaking ceremony for the new $190 million airport. What has been 12 years in the making has now moved from dream, to drawing board to reality.

City leaders have known for years that the existing airport was inadequate. The mesa-top property precluded any on-site expansion to serve the fast-growing community. A new location that met federal design standards and a larger jet fleet had to be developed.

Before I was even elected to represent Washington County in 2002, I heard a great deal about the proposed airport, particularly the problems in gaining approval for the new site.  An initial environmental assessment by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in 2001 was ruled inadequate. In the spring of 2003 a more rigorous Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) process began.  In close consultation with local officials, I held the FAA's feet to the fire, insisting that a transparent, open, rigorous but timely process be followed.  By September of 2006, I was able to watch as Mayor Dan McArthur accepted a check for $17.2 million from the FAA administrator.

With its growing population and world-renowned recreational opportunities, St. George will be a magnet for thousands of new residents and visitors alike over the next decade. Air travel will be safe, convenient and more efficient with the new airport.  It shows how-over the long term-it makes sense for the federal government to invest in infrastructure that complements economic development and quality of life goals adopted by local residents and elected officials.  It's not an economic "fix" for the current situation, but it's certainly a far-sighted answer for supporting and sustaining future economic prosperity.