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Buena Vista airport manager outlines $11–$12 million in FAA/CDOT projects; runway rehab alone estimated at $9 million
Summary
Airport Manager Chandra described a multi‑year capital plan and said FAA and CDOT have committed roughly $11–$12 million to projects expected over the next three years, including a $9 million runway/taxiway rehabilitation project scheduled for 2028.
Chandra, the Town of Buena Vista airport manager, told the Board of Trustees on Sept. 23 that federal and state aviation partners have committed significant funds for runway and taxiway rehabilitation and other capital improvements.
Chandra said “the FAA and CDOT ... have committed to providing over 11 to $12,000,000 to the airport in the next 3 years,” and that the runway and taxiway rehabilitation project “totals in itself $9,000,000.” She said the combined funding would allow design and full pavement rehabilitation, replacement of runway lighting and signage, and follow‑on work that would leave the airport “about 95% rehabilitated” after completion.
Why it matters: Chandra said the rehabilitation work would be unprecedented for an airport of Buena Vista’s size and that the state and federal funds would require a local match. Trustees asked for a forthcoming estimate of the town’s matching obligation.
Chandra said the airport’s priorities include pavement rehabilitation, hangar and apron expansion, upgrades to terminal facilities and HVAC, and increased staffing to support operations. She said the town plans to add full‑time flight‑line staff in 2026 and is pursuing annexation and economic development opportunities tied to the airport.
Trustee follow‑up: a trustee asked whether the town will have to provide matching funds for the CDOT project; Chandra replied, “Absolutely. Yes, ma’am. So over the next few years, I will … present a realistic view of how much we will have to match in order to receive that $12,000,000. And that number will be coming very soon.”
Budget context: town staff said the airport has already advanced apron rehabilitation and tie‑down projects. Chandra noted airport revenues have increased and the airport served as staging for recent wildland fire responses. The board’s budget process will consider how much the town can commit as matching funds and timing for carry‑forward projects.
Next steps: airport staff will provide estimates of the town’s required match and updated capital schedules to trustees during the budget process.
