The Garnett Airport had some good news recently from the FFA on the passage of the FFA Reauthorization Act. This directly effects the Garnett Airport with increased funding for major infrastructure projects, with 95% paid for by the FFA. Airport Manager Pat Schettler says they can have the FFA pay for 95% of the necessary land purchases, design work and construction work on the new runway and east road. More good news. The Kansas Legislature passed House Bill 2498. This authorizes K-DOT to raise the amount budgeted for aviation infrastructure, like the runway project. He adds that a successful grant proposal could get K-DOT to pay for 50% of the remaining 5%, meaning the city would only have to pay 2. 5% for the new runway and road.
The runway markings have become so faded that they are a safety hazard. Work to repaint the markings and taxiway lines, uses normal traffic paint instead of paying a company in order to save money. Schettler says several hangers have changed owners and one has brought a new aircraft mechanic to the airport. She says having a mechanic on hand is a big improvement and something they have needed for a long time.
