BOCC Approves Task Forces for Aspen Airport Modernization and Multimodal Connectivity

The Pitkin County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) convened on August 27, 2025, to discuss the formation of an Airport Modernization Task Force, which aims to oversee the design of a new terminal and improve multimodal transportation options at the Aspen/Pitkin County Airport. The meeting included public comments and a formal resolution to approve the task force members.

Deputy Manager Ryan Mahoney introduced the resolution, highlighting the task force's dual focus: one group will concentrate on terminal design, while the other will address transportation connectivity. Key members of the task force include Jim Light and Michael Solons for terminal design, and Evan Marks and Anne Mullins for multimodal connectivity. The task forces will collaborate with the design team to ensure adherence to the community's common ground recommendations and will engage in public outreach to gather input from stakeholders and airport users.

Jim Light emphasized the ambitious nature of the terminal design project, noting the importance of balancing community values with technical expertise. He expressed confidence in the selected task force members, who were chosen from a pool of 87 applicants, to fulfill the project’s goals effectively.

Commissioner Patty thanked the team for their hard work and requested that the names of the selected task force members be read into the record for public awareness. She also suggested clarifying the resolution title to reflect the formation of two distinct task forces, which was agreed upon by the board.

The first combined task force meeting is scheduled for September 30, 2025, and will be open to the public, marking the beginning of a collaborative effort to modernize the airport facilities while ensuring community engagement and input throughout the process.