The City of Clearwater Airpark Advisory Board met on August 2, 2023, to discuss key developments regarding the future of the Airpark, particularly the timeline for the new Fixed Base Operator (FBO) building. The anticipated completion date for the new terminal has been pushed back to 2025 due to funding reallocations. Originally slated for design in 2025 and construction in 2027, the timeline has shifted as Fly USA has taken over operations and requested adjustments to the schedule.
During the meeting, it was clarified that the funding for the terminal does not come from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) but rather through the Florida Department of Transportation. This distinction is important for residents who may be curious about the sources of funding and the implications for local infrastructure.
The board also addressed the transition in leadership, as Eric Gandy has stepped down, leaving Mike as the interim director. Bill, a new team member with a background in law enforcement and marine operations, will assist in managing ongoing projects and will be involved in future presentations to the board.
In addition to these updates, board members discussed the timing for presenting annual updates to the city council, which had been postponed last year. The board is awaiting confirmation on the schedule for these presentations, which typically occur at the end of the year.
As the meeting concluded, members expressed a commitment to staying informed and engaged with the community's needs, ensuring that residents are kept up to date on developments at the Airpark. The next steps include finalizing the timeline for the new terminal and continuing the search for a permanent director. The board remains focused on enhancing the Airpark's operations and addressing community concerns as they arise.