Airport staff roll out ABI Next website, marketing materials ahead of May 3 bond election

Airport communications and operations staff on the Abilene Regional Airport Board agenda presented a public-facing website and marketing materials detailing the proposed terminal expansion — branded “ABI Next” — and explained how they are informing voters ahead of the bond election scheduled for May 3.

The marketing presentation, led by Elizabeth, included a live walkthrough of iflyabi.com/abnext and copies of a public flyer. Elizabeth said the site "explains the purpose of the project and what will change about the terminal and the things that we're hoping to accomplish," and staff displayed renderings, an animation fly-through and a FAQ section. The materials outline project goals including easing boarding-area congestion, modernizing mechanical systems and replacing outdated equipment; the materials also state the tax impact to the average property owner: $13.43 annually on $100,000 of assessed value (about $1.12 per month).

Board members and staff emphasized that content on ABI Next and other communications was reviewed by the city attorney and limited to factual information because rules governing staff communications change once a bond election is called. Don noted staff must follow those restrictions and described the animation as "a representation of what our concept should be, if this is built, per the concept." Elizabeth said the team created graphics for airport displays and social media, and set up an email (abinext@abilenetx.gov) for public questions.

The presentation also described complementary outreach: a targeted digital campaign, upcoming billboards and terminal-screen advertising; a Fly Local Pledge exhibit is being relocated inside the terminal to increase visibility. Elizabeth said marketing staff also plan to add an "air service development" information section and an ABI VIP section to the site so residents can view data and see how public use influences route development.

Board members and staff credited city communications and legal staff for help preparing factual materials. Don and Elizabeth said the website and collateral are intended to improve public understanding of the project and encourage informed feedback before the election.

The board did not take a formal vote on the materials during the meeting; the bond election remains scheduled for May 3 and staff said they planned to meet again after the election to review results.