Finishing touches to airport

Hot Springs County Commissioners and GDA engineer Jeremy Gilb declared the Nov. 7 airport grand opening a “huge success” on all fronts during their Thursday afternoon meeting.

Over 300 people attended the event, which according to early estimates ran a mere $50 dollars over budget. Incredible Edibles, who catered the event, counted 212 plates served, and Gilb added that he saw around a hundred people that did not eat.

Opening day for the airport was a busy day, with 20 different planes landing on the runway, some taking off and landing multiple times.

A few projects are unfinished at the airport, which is currently open and functioning within all FAA and WYDOT parameters.

An underdrain project, which Gilb said was supposed to start Monday but instead was delayed to Thursday, should take about one or two weeks to finish. GDA is also researching a fix for the airport beacon, which has caused a handful of complaints from nearby residents.

During Thursday’s meeting, Gilb and commissioner Brad Basse said they would search for a way to solve the issue of the beacon. A sheet metal reflector was suggested, and Basse and Gilb volunteered to speak to the community member who raised the concern.

Jadeco entered a winning bid for the airport security system, which will cost just over $4,000. Kenco, out of Billings, also entered a bid, but lost due its $15,000 price tag.

The county commissioners have filled out all applicable paperwork from WYDOT to receive a license to sell fuel at the airport. Nate Messenger, the airport FOB, will be in charge of all fuel sales.