New Joslin Field Runway Requires More Study

By Jared S. Hopkins, The Times-News, Twin Falls, Idaho

Jun. 4–The Federal Aviation Administration has asked Joslin Field, Magic Valley Regional Airport to continue studying whether a new general aviation crosswind runway is imperative to receive federal funding, Airport Manager Bill Carberry said Tuesday.

The FAA — which officials hope would provide most of the project’s funding — wants further study after expressing concern over whether the facility has enough need, Carberry told the airport advisory board Tuesday.

A study was done last spring, Carberry said, and the need stems from public safety concerns from the advisory board, Carberry said. A study found a new runway would solve wind problems and estimated overall costs at between $5 million and $6 million.

“To the FAA, in their eyes, this project seems to have cooled a little bit lately,” he said. “They’re not quite sure we’re at the point where we define purpose and need, and, therefore, (if) justification is there for this project.”

General aviation is considered by many an under-the-radar gem to the airport, which also provides daily flights to Salt Lake City through SkyWest airlines. There are about 40 hangars and as many as 100 aircraft — plus cargo operations such as Federal Express.

The crosswind runway — likely 4,000-feet long — would be plotted on the eastern side of the airport and the existing one would become a taxiway. The 8,700-foot runway would be unaffected.

Carberry said the federal agency, which regulates aviation in the United States and doles out most related federal money, has found Joslin Field lacked enough light aircraft, but is now concerned whether there is even need.

“It seems they are being a little more conservative with their dollars,” said Carberry, noting it is a common trend with most airports.

As a result of the FAA’s decision, the airport’s five-year update will be more basic, and the changes requested by the FAA will be incorporated to the master plan update, which has two years to be completed.

The five-year FAA Airport Capital Improvement Plan includes pavement maintenance, an apron extension and snow removal equipment. It’s updated annually and submitted to the FAA, Carberry said.

The airport receives about $1 million in entitlement funds, which are based on airline enplanements. The money can be used for up to three years, and the airport currently has about $2.5 million, according to preliminary copy of the plan. The FAA also provides grants for specific projects.

Carberry said for long-term planning he seeks a balance with revenue-generating areas, safety and routine maintenance.

Jared S. Hopkins may be reached at 208-735-3204 or jhopkins@magicvalley.com.

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