Sussex County Council approves lease for Aloft Innovation Center at Delaware Coastal Airport

In a recent Sussex County Council meeting, significant steps were taken to enhance local infrastructure and support innovation at the Delaware Coastal Airport. The council approved a lease agreement with Pat's Aircraft LLC to establish an Aloft Innovation Center at the airport, aimed at providing customers with a hands-on experience to explore goods and services related to home improvement. This initiative is expected to foster community engagement and support local businesses by creating a space for education and interaction.

Additionally, the council addressed critical safety measures at the airport by approving a contract for tree removal operations to mitigate obstructions near the runway. The engineering department recommended awarding the contract to Scribe Tree Service for $705,387, which will involve clearing approximately 10 to 12 acres of vegetation that poses a risk to airspace safety. This proactive measure is part of the county's ongoing efforts to comply with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) regulations and ensure safe operations at the airport.

The meeting also included discussions about securing FAA funding for ongoing construction projects at the airport. The council is seeking approval for a grant application that would cover 95% of the costs associated with the construction of a new parallel taxiway, a project that is being executed in phases over several years. The total cost for the current phase is estimated at $2,447,777, with the council aiming to streamline the grant execution process to avoid delays.

These developments reflect Sussex County's commitment to enhancing local infrastructure, ensuring safety at the Delaware Coastal Airport, and fostering innovation that benefits the community. As these projects move forward, residents can expect improvements that will not only enhance air travel safety but also provide new opportunities for local businesses and community engagement.