“We want to expand our aviation footprint. We need to look at some opportunities for expansion.” To this end, Foster is undergoing a focus planning study that would ultimately include general aviation access to the facility by building new general aviation ramps located within the interior of the airport. “This will be a pretty significant project for us,” he anticipates. Over the next five years, Foster highlights that the airport has approximately $21 million of improvements scheduled. By 2037, Elko Regional will have a total of $53 million of scheduled projects that it will be undertaking, which represents a significant investment in the airport facilities over the next 10 to 12 years. LOOKING DOWN THE RUNWAY AHEAD Tourism may be a major area of focus; however, Foster sees other economic expansion opportunities beyond bringing in visitor dollars, and that may include aviation-based businesses attracted to the airport or even non-aeronautical businesses that may want to lease on airport lands that are available. “If there is an aeronautical component, that would be great. For example, we don’t have cargo facilities and things related to this here at Elko, but it could also potentially be a business associated with that that would have direct access to the airfield, maybe a manufacturer,” he speculates. Regardless of the type and scope of business that will want to base operations at Elko Regional, one thing is clear: Foster is laser-focused on ensuring that economic expansion is given top priority and that the avenues are in place to facilitate such anticipated growth. As to what the immediate future holds, Foster is quick to predict. YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE AWAITS! YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE AWAITS! From the majestic Ruby Mountains offering incredible outdoor adventures to its rich Western history evident in every corner, and lively events like the National Basque Festival, Elko, Nevada, truly offers something for everyone. Plan your next unforgettable adventure today and experience the captivating spirit of Elko! EXPLORE ELKO, NEVADA 9 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 12, ISSUE 08 ELKO REGIONAL AIRPORT
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MTI5MjAx