Home » Kentucky Dept. of Aviation commissions study of Bluegrass region needs

Kentucky Dept. of Aviation commissions study of Bluegrass region needs

FRANKFORT, Ky. — The Kentucky Department of Aviation is preparing a report that could drive long-term decisions about meeting aviation needs in Central Kentucky and supporting economic development in the commonwealth.

The Lexington Regional Aviation System Plan (LRASP) will supplement the 2017 Kentucky State Aviation System Plan and provide a regional growth strategy for the airport system in Central Kentucky.

“The Lexington Regional Aviation System Plan is more than a transportation study—it is a framework for long-term air travel and economic development in Central Kentucky,” said KDA Commissioner Todd Bloch. “This process will help us plan for smart growth for Kentucky’s No.1 export, within this region of the commonwealth.”

Seven airports within the Central Kentucky region are involved in the study; these are:

  • Bluegrass Airport (LEX) in Lexington
  • Capital City Airport (FFT) in Frankfort
  • Georgetown-Scott County Regional Airport (27K) in Georgetown
  • Mt. Sterling-Montgomery County Airport (IOB) in Mt. Sterling
  • Central Kentucky Regional Airport (RGA) in Richmond
  • Danville-Boyle County Regional Airport (DVK) in Danville
  • Cynthiana-Harrison County Airport (O18) in Cynthiana

The plan will identify three key areas: (1) current and recommended airport roles; (2) capacity and infrastructure gaps to meet existing and future growth in aviation (3) alternatives to address the gaps.

With these alternatives, the Project Team will consider a range of improvements at each airport in the regional system. Beyond specific improvements at existing airports, other changes and ideas will be considered—including land acquisition for expansion at an airport or even a new airport.

Public involvement is a key part of the study process. There are many ways for stakeholders to stay informed and share opinions, including a public meeting planned for early 2020.

The Project Team will consider input from the public before recommending a final approach for FAA approval. The team will also host a series of stakeholder meetings with airport representatives, business leaders and county officials throughout the process.

Find more information at www.KyAviationPlan.com or on social media channels (Twitter: @KyAviationPlan, Facebook: KyAviationPlan). Members of the public can also share comments by email at [email protected].