From the XD's
desk
Growing
Aviation & Aerospace Jobs
Adding new aviation and aerospace jobs to our local
economy is a major goal of the Salina and Saline County Economic
Development Strategic Plan. The plan was developed and is being implemented
in partnership by the City of Salina, Saline County, the Salina Airport
Authority and the Salina Area Chamber of Commerce. The Authority is leading
efforts to develop the SLN Aviation Service Center as a premier location
for aviation businesses to establish facilities for the maintenance, repair
and overhaul of general aviation, commercial and military aircraft.
Developing the SLN Aviation Service Center is a capital intensive job that
involves investment in both existing and new airport infrastructure. This
summer the Authority is completing more than $5 million in improvements to
airfield runways and taxiways to keep the Salina Municipal Airport up to
date with industry expectations and federal requirements. Earlier this year
a new $6.1 million maintenance, repair and overhaul hangar was completed
and ready to be leased. The 69,000 square foot, modern hangar has already
drawn interest from aviation service businesses who view Salina and Saline
County as an excellent location for future growth.
The next challenge is to prepare more than 100 acres of property for long-term
aviation and aerospace industry growth. The SLN Aviation Service Center
growth area will require improvements such as new utilities, improved storm
drainage, pavement removal, resurfacing existing pavement, replatting
development lots and preparing building pads. The site improvements will be
completed over the next three to five years. The priority for 2009 and 2010
is to construct the water, sewer and fire main utilities necessary to
support the construction of more than 750,000 square feet of new hangars.
The SLN Aviation Service Center development plan is ambitious and
achievable. The Salina Airport is already home to aviation businesses that
employ valued aviation and aerospace employees. The development plan builds
upon our successes and strengths. The result will be additional high paying
jobs for our community.
Tim Rogers, A.A.E.
Executive Director
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