The Colorado Aeronautical Board voted Dec. 17 to reserve the unallocated remainder of a $1.5 million state allocation for a second round of unleaded aviation-fuel transition grants.

Director Dave explained that the board had previously assigned $1.5 million in August for 2026 unleaded transition grants and that, so far, only one unleaded transition application had been submitted (the Colorado Air and Space Port's $334,800 application). "We would like to propose to all of you that you formally set aside the remainder of that $1,500,000," Dave said, describing the approach as a way to protect unused funding while staff continues to work with airports that are still finalizing plans.

Board members and staff described the reasons some airports have not yet applied: lack of final design and cost estimates, the fact that many airports do not own fuel infrastructure (FBOs do), and uncertainty about fleet-wide 100‑octane unleaded approvals that could influence airports' choices. Staff said the set-aside would allow the board to hold funds for April's federal-match cycle or reallocate the money to other grants if unused.

The board moved and seconded the staff recommendation. The board voted in favor of reserving the funds.

Why it matters: The transition from leaded avgas to unleaded alternatives is a multi‑step process that requires coordination among airports, fixed-base operators, fuel suppliers, and regulators. Securing and holding available state funds can lower the barrier for airports that need time to finalize designs or coordinate with private fuel providers.

Next steps: Staff will continue outreach to Erie, Longmont, Boulder and other airports that have signaled interest and will bring recommendations forward in April or, if funds remain unused, roll them into the 2027 program.

Ending note: The board's action preserves flexibility for airports while signaling continued state support for the unleaded transition.