Business View Magazine | November 2020

213 BUSINESS VIEW MAGAZINE NOVEMBER 2020 LEADV I LLE- LAKE COUNTY A I RPORT upgrades to its 6,400-ft. asphalt runway and taxiways. Additional upgrades, such as drainage improvements and new lighting systems were also accomplished at that time. APC Southern was the major contractor for the runway project and did a superior-quality paving job. They are touted by Airport Manager Brett Cottrell as “a really good company and a great group of people to work with.” He also gives a shout-out to “two key people who are responsible for the growth and development of this airport over the years: Director of Public Works Michael Irwin, who has been with the airport since the County took it over, and County Commissioner Kayla Marcella, who is key in connecting the economic development engine supporting Lake County’s vision.” For the last five years, Leadville-Lake County Airport has been self-sustaining and actually generating a profit thanks to the large quantity of helicopters utilizing the facility for testing. The airport happens to coincide with one of their critical benchmarks – height velocity diagrams at just short of 10,000 ft.– an II foundations at Camp Hale, feed the fish at the historic hatchery, follow a long-time rail route on the Leadville scenic train… once you’ve arrived the first time, you’ll definitely want to return. Or maybe put down stakes and relocate. The Leadville area is an ideal setting to live and do business. And getting there is a pleasure all its own thanks to the convenience, professional service, and friendly atmosphere at Leadville-Lake County Airport. Equally popular in all seasons, the airport’s proximity to several major ski areas makes it an ideal jumping off place for winter sport enthusiasts. Leadville receives more than 156 inches of snow annually! But not to worry, the very capable snow removal team keeps the airport open and operating safely year round, so you’ll never miss a powder day. The Airport was originally built in the mid-1960s as a privately-owned facility and remained that way until 2009, when ownership was assumed by Lake County. In 2019, the new owner utilized an FAA grant of $5.8 million to make