Airport board frustrated with runway paving progress

Three members of the Northwest Missouri Regional Airport Board met November 7 to learn why Ideker Construction has not completed the airport runway paving project.

Assistant City Manager Ryan Heiland said the construction firm must still complete several steps before it is able to finish the $3.390 million project and the paving unit is not on the premises.

Heiland expressed frustration and noted there were several days of good weather last week during which the firm might have completed the project.

The construction firm is charged $750 for each day project completion is delayed.  Jviation, the airport consultant and engineer and project manager firm, is also seeking penalty fees from Ideker.

The project, which began June 13, is 2.5 months overdue.

Heiland said he will meet with Ideker officials this week. His estimated opening date for the regional airport is December 3.

Heiland reported the airport’s apron rehab project paperwork has been submitted to MoDOT. The million dollar project should begin fall 2017.

Heiland said that materials have been moved to the terminal and more facility improvements are planned that will aid visiting pilots. He also spoke about proposed upgrades to the old city hangar building.

Heiland told board members that two part-time employees have been hired to perform maintenance work and will begin training in St. Joseph. A permanent schedule for these employees is being created.

The board discussed having the fixed-based operator acquire trade magazine bids and communicate with Missouri universities that have aviation curriculum. Heiland plans to begin this project next week.