Chamber of Commerce and Visit Del Norte County, also contribute to the airport’s success by promoting tourism. Meanwhile, the partnership with Sutter Coast Hospital is vital for patient transport, particularly in emergencies where speed is paramount. “Cal-Ore Life Flight works alongside local medical facilities like Sutter Coast Hospital to transport critical care patients,” Cooley says. “The hospital also advertises with the airport to raise awareness about their services in the community.” Operating under a Joint Powers Authority (JPA) structure, The Border Coast Regional Airport Authority draws support and oversight from a coalition of regional entities, including Del Norte County, Crescent City, Curry County in Oregon, and two local tribal governments,Tolowa Dee-ni’ Nation and Elk Valley Rancheria. “The JPA brings together stakeholders from both the California and Oregon coasts,” Cooley notes. “It takes all these different entities working together to make the airport successful.” This collaborative governance model reflects the shared interests of multiple communities and ensures that the airport serves as a true regional asset. For Cooley, this spirit of cooperation goes both ways. “When communities come together to enhance their airports, those airports, in turn, help build stronger communities,” he says, reflecting on wise words once said. Through a mix of careful development, educational outreach, and strategic partnerships, The Del Norte County Regional Airport has become a cornerstone for the region, weaving together economic opportunity, emergency services, and community pride. PRIORITIES FOR THE FUTURE: SAFETY, MODERNIZATION, AND SERVICE Looking ahead, Airport priorities cover ongoing modernization and safety improvements that align with the needs of its community. Cooley emphasizes that the airport’s mission is not just about maintaining the status quo, but about enhancing the facility to meet future demands and ensure its long-term value for the region.“Our focus is on advancing Jack McNamara Field’s infrastructure to make it stateof-the-art,” he says. “We’re dedicated to providing top-of-the-line safety, security, and service for both 195 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE VOLUME 11, ISSUE 12 DEL NORTE COUNTY REGIONAL AIRPORT
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