Tri County Airport authority cites $5 million economic impact, seeks county help on access road

Danny Hickson, representing the Tri County Airport Authority, presented the airport's annual update to the Holmes County commission, citing a state study that put the airport's economic impact at more than $5,000,000 per year and FAA operations figures showing routine daily activity, including military traffic.

Hickson described the airport's facilities — a 5,398‑foot runway, a certified helipad and 304 acres of property — and recent maintenance work including electrical pump upgrades and hanger and stormwater improvements. He said the authority is open to development on the south portion of the property if a partner can enhance airport services or finances.

A central request: the airport authority asked the county to explore improving an existing dirt road providing access to the south end, which Hickson said is currently a barrier to prospective tenants such as an aircraft engine repair company. Hickson said the authority has no capital to contribute beyond operating revenues and FAA grants and that the authority is staffed mostly by volunteers with one full‑time and one part‑time employee.

Commissioners asked staff to obtain a cost estimate for the road—roughly described in the meeting as about a half‑mile—and to evaluate whether grant funding or the county's development commission could assist. Commissioner comments suggested the development commission or grant programs tied to emergency management might strengthen an application for outside funding.

Hickson also invited commissioners to the Tri County Economic Meeting on April 16 at 5:30 p.m. at the airport, and described plans to pursue outreach and potential partners. Commissioners thanked the authority and asked staff to follow up on cost estimates and potential funding options.

This was a presentation and informational item; no appropriations or commitments were made at the meeting.