Duplin County approves fuel farm, hangar grading change and apron rehab project; adds airport technician

Duplin County commissioners approved a set of airport projects and staffing changes aimed at preparing the county airport for growth.

Airport staff presented a contract to replace the county’s fuel farm (originally built in 1994) with a $2,033,715 construction contract, describing funding that includes state and federal grants covering roughly 90% of the cost and a local match from the airport fund balance. Commissioner Garner moved to approve the contract and project ordinance; the motion passed by voice vote.

The board also approved a change request from Daniels & Daniels Construction to perform additional grading for a future hangar pad while the contractor is on site. Staff described the change as funded from transportation reserve funds allocated by the General Assembly and presented the change order amount of approximately $376,317 to add to the original guaranteed maximum price; commissioners approved the request.

Separately, the board authorized a project ordinance and grant agreement for apron rehabilitation design and associated cost‑benefit analysis, noting the local match would be minor and largely in‑kind with a small cash match reported.

Finally, commissioners approved creating an airport technician position that was included in the current budget to address maintenance and expansion needs for the 60‑acre air park and additional road shoulders. Staff said funds were available in the adopted budget for the position.

All airport items were approved by voice vote; staff said the work will position the airport for potential private hangar construction and future development opportunities.