The Grand Forks County Board of Commissioners took a significant step towards enhancing operational safety at Grand Forks International Airport during their meeting on December 17, 2024. The board reviewed a petition from the Grand Forks Airport Authority to close nearly a mile and a half of section lines in Rye Township, which are currently open for public travel. This closure is part of a broader initiative to improve airport infrastructure and safety.

Tim Dittis, legal counsel for the airport authority, outlined the necessity of this action, emphasizing that it aligns with federal regulations and the airport's master plan. The recent extension of the crosswind runway, which spans approximately 2,500 feet, aims to facilitate one-way traffic flow for both large and small aircraft under all weather conditions. This extension is crucial as it allows continued commercial air service while the primary runway undergoes reconstruction.

The airport authority has already taken steps to relocate County Road 5 to accommodate the new runway safety areas. This relocation involved constructing a new roadway at the authority's expense and granting an easement to Grand Forks County. Dittis highlighted that the closure of the section lines would not deprive adjacent landowners of access, as they have been granted private access easements.

The board's decision to close these section lines is contingent upon determining that it confers a public benefit. Dittis argued that the improvements in operational safety and the facilitation of commercial air service clearly meet this criterion. The board's approval of the petition will allow the airport authority to maintain exclusive control over these areas, ensuring compliance with federal safety mandates.

In addition to the airport authority's petition, the meeting included discussions on other local matters, but the focus remained on the airport's expansion and safety improvements. The board's actions reflect a commitment to enhancing infrastructure that supports both community needs and economic development through improved air travel services. As the airport continues to evolve, these decisions will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of air travel in the region.