BUCYRUS, OH (CRAWFORD COUNTY NOW)—Kevin Detray of Detray Aviation, along with Ben Cooley, provided an update to the Bucyrus City Council on Tuesday regarding the potential construction of a new airport terminal at the Bucyrus Airport.
Detray informed the council about the federal grants available for airport improvements, noting that the airport applies for these grants regularly to maintain operations. He explained that the federal airport improvement grant typically amounts to around $150,000 each year, with the possibility for funds to accumulate up to $600,000 before expiration.
Detray highlighted the need for maintenance on the runway, which was laid in 2017. While the asphalt remains in good condition, he noted that it has become bleached and requires a new top coat, along with refreshed paint and markings. The engineering estimate for this runway project stands at approximately $395,000. Under the grant terms, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) would cover 95% of the costs, leaving the City of Bucyrus responsible for the remaining 5% in order to qualify for the grant.
In a significant development, Ben Cooley announced to the council that the Bucyrus Airport has finally received approval for a grant to construct a new terminal, after years of unsuccessful applications. Cooley described the grant process as highly competitive for airports of Bucyrus’ size, noting that this was the fourth attempt that resulted in success.
The current terminal, built in the 1930s or 1940s, is located too close to the runway to meet FAA regulations. While Cooley and his team are still working on precise engineering estimates, he shared that the FAA has approved a $2 million grant for the project, with the federal government providing $1.9 million and the city responsible for $100,000. Cooley committed to returning to the council with more detailed figures in the near future, emphasizing the need for the project to be designed and under grant by July.
Councilman James Mee expressed his full support for the airport developments but raised concerns regarding financial implications.
The council subsequently decided to refer the runway and terminal projects to the service and finance committees to ensure they are included on the open projects list once all details are finalized.