Madison County board reviews apron, taxi lane and runway projects at Ennis Big Sky and Ruby Valley Field

Robert Peccia & Associates told the Madison County Airport Board on April 13 that planned apron expansions, taxi-lane work and runway improvements at the county’s two airports are moving toward summer work windows.

Lance Bowser of Robert Peccia & Associates reviewed engineering work for Ennis Big Sky Airport, saying layout alternatives, grades and slope connections for the north apron expansion require no design changes and that the team expects construction work to occur in the May–June 2026 window. Bowser also reported a preliminary inspection of the county’s incoming snow-removal truck (AIP-027-2023): a spare-parts punch list was compiled, batteries and hydraulic systems verified, and Freightliner provided weekly updates on outstanding items.

The board discussed Ruby Valley Field’s runway-widening effort; Bowser said the team is waiting for ‘leaf-on’ aerial imagery to produce as-built mapping, with imagery acquisition scheduled for May or June 2026. Bowser told the board the FAA 5010 Airport Master Record for Ruby Valley Field was submitted Jan. 7, 2026, and that the record is expected to be updated in the FAA cycle on May 14, 2026.

Board members and RPA also reviewed a list of capital-improvement projects for both airports, including phased apron expansions, new taxi lanes, pavement maintenance, construction of a pilot’s lounge at Ennis Big Sky, equipment acquisition (tractor with attachments and other SRE), and acquisition of land for development and approach protection. The board and consultant considered sequencing, grading ties and connections between apron phases.

The board did not approve construction contracts at the meeting; Bowser framed many items as design-complete or awaiting funding and permitting steps. The board will continue to track schedules and procurements at future meetings.