Some roadblocks for outside access to the Hollister Municipal
Airport are close to resolution, which business leaders say would
open the door for economic development in that area, according to a
recent announcement from the Economic Development Corp. of San
Benito County.
Those issues have revolved around the idea of
”
through-the-fence
”
access and additional taxi-ways so that there could be corridors
between private areas, such as the Airpark Business Park, and the
airport property. The belief is that opening up such access would
create an additional draw for companies desiring convenient use of
an airport.
Some roadblocks for outside access to the Hollister Municipal Airport are close to resolution, which business leaders say would open the door for economic development in that area, according to a recent announcement from the Economic Development Corp. of San Benito County.
Those issues have revolved around the idea of “through-the-fence” access and additional taxi-ways so that there could be corridors between private areas, such as the Airpark Business Park, and the airport property. The belief is that opening up such access would create an additional draw for companies desiring convenient use of an airport.
The EDC in its announcement noted how the organization had organized meetings with Congressman Sam Farr, D-Carmel, along with the Federal Aviation Administration and city officials.
EDC President Nancy Martin in the announcement called the news “very rewarding” and she pointed out support from organizations such as the Hollister City Council, the city’s airport commission, the San Benito County Board of Supervisors, the San Benito County Business Council, Airpark Business Park and Calfire.
“We appreciate all the letters of support that were used at various stages of this portion of the project,” Martin said in the statement. “Congressman Farr and his staff have been true champions of the airport. We will need everyone’s assistance to obtain the next phase funds for the airport to fulfill its potential as an economic driver for the region.”
The EDC noted how the FAA in a meeting with Airport Director Mike Chambless in September stated how the “through-the-fence” designation would be reinstated as it appeared on the first Airport Land Plan and that additional taxi-ways would be allowed. Those taxi-ways, though, would not be eligible for further federal funds.
Martin has estimated the ability to attract avionic-related companies and other industrial users would create about 4,200 jobs while adding $300 million in valuation and two million square feet of industrial building space.
The EDC estimated that $15 million is needed to fund the work and noted in the statement how the group is working with the city and Farr on finding funding mechanisms.
