The Oklahoma Department of Aerospace and Aeronautics (ODAA) reflected on a successful year, at the December Commission meeting, closing out 2023 with 29 total projects at a total of 22 airports across the state with a total investment of $31,401,053.
“2023 was marked with multiple wins across the state for the Oklahoma airport system as well as the aerospace industry,” said Grayson Ardies, ODAA Executive Director. “We are looking forward to continuing our mission in 2024 to advance the Oklahoma aerospace industry and the continued growth and improvement of our state’s vast airport structure.”
During the December meeting, Commissioners approved an amendment to the five-year Airport Construction Program (ACP) for state fiscal year 2024 which added the following five projects:
- David Jay Perry (Goldsby) – Fuel System
- Durant Regional Airport/Eaker Field – Hangar Building
- Okmulgee Regional Airport – Terminal Building
- West Woodward Airport – Land Acquisition
- William R. Pogue Municipal Airport (Sand Springs) – Fuel System
Through its ACP, the Department determines airport projects at the 108 public airports across the system and the how they will be funded with the various sources of federal and state grants. Projects are prioritized based on safety, preservation, standards, and economic benefit. Federal grants typically require 10 percent in matching funds from the airport sponsor or owner; however, for projects identified in the ACP, the Department makes half the federal match. Regular state grant funding require five percent matching funds whereas terminal buildings require 50 percent matching funds and hangars require 60 percent matching funds.
More than $174 million in federal funds will pay for the majority of the projects based on the financial numbers, while $113 million in state grants and $55 million in local matching funds will cover the remaining costs.
To see the entire list of projects included in the proposed ACP, click here.
A Prep Fund project was approved at West Woodward Airport to acquire 104 acres of land at the north end of the runway to help the airport with their growth plans. Based on the certified appraisal, the cost to acquire the land is $214,800 and will be funded 100% with PREP funds.
ODAA Executive Director Ardies concluded the meeting with an end-of-the-year wrap-up outlining the Department’s 2023 achievements.
