BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—The recent approval by the finance committee to contract for the design of a new airport terminal has ignited a passionate debate about its location.
Fred Fischer, a Bucyrus resident and member of the Airport Commission, addressed the committee, urging them to consider alternative sites for the terminal that would accommodate future airport growth. Fischer expressed his dismay at having to raise concerns about the terminal’s location, clarifying that he was speaking as a concerned community member rather than as a representative of the Airport Commission.
He emphasized his long-standing efforts to promote the Bucyrus airport and recounted the council’s decision over two years ago to initiate a preliminary study for funding a new terminal building. “The FAA is in its own little world, and to stir that pot was not a good thing to do,” Fischer remarked, highlighting the complexities of aviation regulations.
Currently, the proposed plan is to build the new terminal behind the existing administration building. However, Fischer warned that this location lacks space (less than 3 acres) for additional hangars. He pointed out that the city owns 60 acres on the west side of the runway that would allow for development and expansion.
Fischer noted that Bucyrus is one of two airports in Ohio with buildings situated within the 400-foot runway setback, which poses safety concerns, so there was a good possibility to get the grant. He asserted that the airport is crucial for industrial and economic growth in the region, citing instances of corporate jets flying in, such as the owners of the GE building.
Jobs Ohio recently conducted an assessment in Bucyrus and identified limited job-ready manufacturing sites, with the Crossroads Industrial Park being the only viable option. Fischer argued that while some sites may require extensive development, they should not be dismissed outright. He acknowledged existing infrastructure challenges, such as sewage treatment plant capacity, which need addressing before further development can proceed.
Fischer proposed exploring alternative locations for the terminal across the runway to allow for future expansion, potentially including additional hangars and even a restaurant. The city already owns 60 available acres across the road from the current terminal. He lamented that the Airport Commission had not considered other options.
In discussions with Sarah Herrle from the Crawford Partnership, Fischer learned of two state-funded opportunities Bucyrus could pursue: one aimed at improving access roads to airports and another focused-on tourism funding. He emphasized the airport’s historical significance, recalling that Bucyrus was the first municipal airport founded and managed by a woman, Lauretta Schimmoler, in 1929.
Fischer expressed disappointment that the Airport Commission did not explore other funding avenues or potential terminal locations. He urged the council to consider conducting soil borings at the current proposed site, suggesting it would be a minor expense compared to the overall project cost. He also mentioned that Bucyrus received a $190,000 refund to its general fund from the taxiway project. Those funds were not anticipated in the 2024 budget and could be tapped to pay for the soil samples.
Bucyrus City Law Director Brandon Gobrecht has offered to collaborate with the Crawford Partnership to attract industry and secure funding for airport-related projects.