City staff outlines Flying Fortress industrial-area plan, FAA land-release timeline and funding needs

Vice Chair Zimmerman requested an update on the Flying Fortress industrial area and the staff presented an overview of project phases, ownership and funding outlook.

Staff described a multi-phase plan that includes a potential Patriot Rail interchange tied to FAA land release. The presentation said an interchange build could cost roughly $13,000,000 and that the broader northern side improvements for Flying Fortress Parkway are currently estimated in the "northern side" region of about $22,000,000 in today's dollars. Bennett said staff are pursuing federal grant funding and coordinating with Patriot Rail, BNSF and airport staff as the FAA land-release process proceeds.

Bennett said the FAA land-release remains active and staff hope to see progress in the first or second quarter of the year, but cautioned timelines depend on FAA processes. He told the commission the release represents roughly 790 acres and that city ownership is not guaranteed for all release parcels; the city anticipates partnering with private landowners and rail operators for interchange and infrastructure work.

The presentation noted some project elements are funded and some are not; staff said construction procurement (phase 1) and other RFPs are underway for funded pieces, and that staff will continue to coordinate land-use, water, power and drainage considerations with property owners and prospective industry partners.

No action was taken; EDAC members were encouraged to participate in council-level decisions and to route questions through staff for follow-up.