Tri-Cities Airport to Host Master Plan Open House
Blountville, TN – The Tri-Cities Airport is embarking on an Airport Master Plan (AMP) process which will shape its future for the next two decades, and the local community is invited to participate in this transformative process. To kickstart this initiative, the airport is hosting this public meeting as part of its Public Involvement Program (PIP). The meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, November 15, 2023, from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM, at Northeast State Community College, Basler Library Room L106, at 2475 Highway 75, Blountville, TN 37617.
The AMP, which is required by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), is designed to chart a course for the airport’s growth, ensuring safety, efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and environmental responsibility. It will assess various development options, aligning with the demand for aviation services and the interests of the neighboring communities.
Gene Cossey, the Executive Director of Tri-Cities Airport, expressed his enthusiasm for the project, stating, “We are excited to launch the Airport Master Plan, and we invite our community to actively participate in shaping the future of the airport. This plan is a collaborative effort between the Airport, the Tennessee Department of Transportation, and the FAA, and is designed to guide our development over the next two decades.”
The Public Involvement Program (PIP) is a critical component of this endeavor. It is focused on creating awareness and gathering public input regarding the project findings. Public input is essential to ensure that the planning effort aligns with the needs of stakeholders.
The PIP strategy for the Airport involves generating public awareness through information sharing via a dedicated website and public open house events like the one on November 15. It also incorporates a feedback mechanism at significant milestones of the AMP process to encourage dialogue and collaboration between stakeholders and the planning team.
The first public meeting, scheduled for November 15, will introduce the initial phase of the AMP, including the existing conditions inventory and the forecast of operations for the Airport. It is a vital opportunity for the community to learn about and actively participate in the shaping of their airport’s future.
The Tri-Cities Airport welcomes all interested individuals and stakeholders to join in this significant initiative. The community’s input and involvement are highly encouraged, as we collectively shape the future of our region’s vital transportation hub.
For more information about the Tri-Cities Airport Master Plan and the Public Involvement Program, please contact the AtkinsRéalis Planning Team at aviation.planning@akinsrealis.com