County Eyes Expansion, Improvements at Everglades Airpark and Marco Executive Airport

While it was a Miami-based investment firm that commanded aviation headlines this week by announcing it will attempt to resurrect Pan Am, across the state, Collier County Commissioners discussed their own aviation-related aspirations. 

Commissioners agreed Tuesday to delay an item that would authorize the purchase of additional property adjacent to Everglades Airpark. The move was made at the request of Commissioner Burt Saunders, who requested additional time to review the proposal. 

A portion of the 52-acre parcel could be used for kayak launches and other recreational purposes. Executive Airport Manager Bryant Garrett says he wants seven of the acres to expand the size of the airport, which is currently just 29 acres. 

“From the world of airport management, land equals revenue,” said Garrett. 

Garrett estimates the additional space would create room for up to 20 additional “tie-downs,” essentially parking spaces for planes, which the airport charges $150 to $200 annually per aircraft. He also claims the expansion would pave the way for more grant funding and make the airport less cramped, safer, and more efficient. 

The seven additional acres would have to be purchased at market value from the county using airport funds. 

However, the Everglades City Council has voiced its opposition to the county's acquisition of the property, citing lost property tax revenues. Mayor Howie Grimm did not respond to a request for comment as of press time. 

In other airport business, commissioners authorized staff to pursue a $499,000 federal grant to pay for an overdue comprehensive plan update at Marco Island Executive Airport. The plan was last updated in 2006, and the county says a new plan is needed to plan for the next 20 years. 

The grant funding would primarily come from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law of 2021, with the county expected to chip in 1%, or 5,000. The $499,000 would only pay for a detailed two-year study, not any improvements themselves.  

The study will determine what construction or expansion is needed, but Garrett says the airport could probably use expanded safety areas to safely accommodate larger aircraft landings. Environmental concerns and noise pollution will also be considered. 

In Other County Business: 

All commissioners were present on Tuesday, with Commissioners Burt Saunders and Dan Kowal appearing remotely. The next County Commissioner meeting is scheduled for June 9,starting at 9:00 AM.