Winchester Regional Airport outlines future growth and economic impact study plans

The Warren County Board of Supervisors held a work session on January 14, 2025, focusing on various topics, including updates from the Winchester Regional Airport and the Lord Fairfax Soil and Water Conservation District.

The meeting commenced with a presentation from the Winchester Regional Airport, where Chairman Bill Harlow expressed gratitude for the long-standing support from Warren County. He highlighted the airport's financial stability and ongoing capital improvements, including a new terminal and safety enhancements, with an estimated $15 to $20 million in projects planned over the next three fiscal years. Harlow emphasized the airport's role as a significant economic driver for the region, noting that it will be the first in Virginia to develop an economic impact statement, which is expected to take about 12 months.

Nick Sabo, the airport's executive director, followed Harlow's remarks, thanking the board for their continued support since the airport's inception in 1987. He discussed the new terminal's design, which aims to meet future aviation needs and connect with the community. Sabo also mentioned an upcoming Advanced Air Mobility Workforce Development Pipeline Study, inviting Warren County to participate in creating a workforce for the aerospace industry. He reported that the airport's budget request remains at $5,000, which will support a total capital budget of approximately $10.3 million, leveraging additional state and federal grants.

Following the airport discussions, Mark Huddleston and Emma Bricker, elected directors to the Lord Fairfax Soil and Water Conservation District, presented updates on conservation efforts in Warren County. They reported significant achievements in education and agricultural projects, with over $1.1 million invested in agricultural practices in the past year. The district aims to enhance community engagement and support for conservation initiatives.

The meeting also addressed the budget requests from the Humane Society, which included a mandatory contract increase and an additional $10,000 request. Board members expressed concerns about the alignment of the society's funding request with their year-to-date expenditures and projected needs.

In conclusion, the work session highlighted the importance of the airport and conservation efforts in Warren County, with discussions on budget allocations and future projects aimed at enhancing community resources and economic growth. The board plans to revisit the Humane Society's budget request in a future session.