EDA staff highlights Device & Tech Expo; airport to solicit feedback on proposed Boston flight
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Summary
Staff reported on the Device & Tech Expo and invited businesses to a Feb. 27 meeting about a proposed direct Charlottesville–Boston flight; the office asked for letters of support and survey responses to demonstrate demand.
Staff updated the Economic Development Authority on recent regional events and outreach priorities, including a recap of the Device & Tech Expo and an invitation for businesses to advise on a proposed direct flight between Charlottesville–Albemarle Airport and Boston.
A staff presenter summarized the Device & Tech Expo as a growing regional showcase with more exhibitors this year and singled out an on-site surgical demonstration by MicroAir as notable. The presentation emphasized the area’s increasing life-sciences and biotech activity and the role of local accelerators and lab space in supporting company growth.
On airport service, staff announced an outreach session scheduled for Feb. 27 to gather letters of support and completed survey forms from businesses that would use a CHO–Boston route. Staff said the airport cannot unilaterally schedule flights and needs evidence of community demand to persuade airlines; the meeting will collect data to present to carriers and schedulers.
Staff also described recent and planned grant-backed expansions at local innovation facilities and noted the region’s traction in attracting industry attention and state support.
