Medina Municipal Airport Seeks $750,000 State Grant for New Hangar

Medina City Council has unanimously authorized applying for a significant state grant. This funding is aimed at a crucial airport development project. The goal is securing funds for new hangar construction at Medina Municipal Airport. The city is hopeful to receive assistance from the Ohio Airport Improvement Program (OAIP). This move underscores the growing need for general aviation infrastructure upgrades across the state.

Funding a Key Infrastructure Need

The approved legislation allows the city to pursue the OAIP grant. City Engineer Patrick Patton noted the program's long history. He confirmed the OAIP recently expanded eligibility to include hangars. This change directly addresses the airport's need for new storage facilities. The maximum grant amount is set at $750,000, according to Patton. This state funding requires a ten percent local match from the city. The OAIP provides financial assistance to publicly-owned, public-use airports in Ohio. Industry reports show Ohio has increased its total annual investment in airport improvements. This increased focus on state aviation grants supports local airport growth.

Enhancing Airport Governance

During the same council meeting, a new ordinance was approved. This ordinance formally establishes the airport manager position for Medina Municipal Airport. Law Director Greg Huber explained the rationale behind this new role. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) provides annual FAA grant monies to municipalities overseeing airports. The FAA typically prefers to deal with a single point person. Huber had been handling these duties alongside his law director role. Formalizing the position will streamline communication with the FAA.

Key Details of the Manager Role

The new airport manager position will not be a paid role. The manager will serve in a capacity similar to the airport commission members. Their duties include coordinating with the FAA and reporting to the city council. The term for the new airport manager is set at four years. This governance change is a critical step in managing federal and state funding. It ensures compliance and effective project oversight for the municipal airport funding.

Industry Impact and Outlook

The demand for aircraft storage, especially T-hangars, remains high at general aviation airports. Securing this grant would allow Medina Municipal Airport to expand its capacity. This expansion directly benefits local aircraft owners and aviation businesses. New hangar construction can also be an economic driver for the surrounding community. It attracts private investment and supports aviation-related services. This development is a positive sign for general aviation infrastructure in Ohio. Successful grant application and project completion will be monitored by those in commercial aviation news.

The project's success hinges on several factors:

• The competitive nature of the Ohio Airport Improvement Program.
• The city's ability to provide the required 10% local funding match.
• Effective coordination by the new airport manager with the FAA.

This initiative highlights the ongoing need for local governments to secure external funding for vital infrastructure improvements. The formalization of the airport manager role demonstrates a commitment to professional airport administration. For more information on similar regional aviation developments, visit flying.flights.