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FAA says Section 185 exemption applies to Lago Vista, clearing way for TxDOT-backed runway work
Summary
The Airport Advisory Board reviewed an FAA Nov. 25, 2025, letter that the board says affirms a Section 185 exemption for Lago Vista, discussed TxDOT funding and engineering for runway rehabilitation, and identified next steps for city communicators and a liaison meeting with TxDOT.
The City of Lago Vista Airport Advisory Board spent much of its Jan. 20 meeting unpacking a Nov. 25, 2025, letter from the Federal Aviation Administration that, the board said, clarifies earlier guidance and affirms that a Section 185 exemption applies to the city.
Board Chair Steve Lowry said the FAA response resolved confusing language from a September 2023 correspondence and “the FAA has agreed with the city that the Section 185 exemption does apply to the city of Lago Vista.” The letter also reiterated the importance of several grant assurances the city must meet as the airport sponsor, he said.
Why it matters: The board and city staff said the FAA clarification reduces uncertainty that had complicated talks with the Property Owners Association (POA) and state agencies, and it clears a path for planned state-funded pavement work administered by the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT).
City Manager Charles West told the board the city received TxDOT approval for an AWOS (Automated Weather Observing System) replacement grant and is preparing bid requests. Board members described a larger potential rehabilitation project that TxDOT may fund, with engineering work planned this calendar year to define scope and schedule.
Members discussed state funding figures cited in the meeting. One speaker referenced a roughly $6,000,000 figure while another referred to $6,600,000; board members and staff said the exact award and allocation will depend on TxDOT engineering and prioritization. The board noted TxDOT’s typical prioritization begins at the runway centerline, then taxiways and ramps.
Board members said they will coordinate next steps through city communicators (identified in prior meetings as Steve Lowry and Shane Som) to thank the FAA and to continue discussions with TxDOT and the city attorney. Steve Lowry and liaison committee members planned a meeting with city staff and the city attorney to review the FAA letter and the options for funding and compliance before presenting any formal proposals to city council.
What comes next: The board expects TxDOT engineering to clarify the project scope and timing; board members said funding could show up as early as fiscal year 2027 or 2028, depending on TxDOT’s schedule. The advisory board will continue liaison work with the city and TxDOT and return to the board with details after engineering and funding guidance are received.
