A year ago, after a good deal of analysis and discussion, my wife and I relocated to Durango from one of the Western Slope’s poorest counties.

We chose Durango because of the economic vitality apparent in this corner of Colorado, a decision that pitted Durango against some of the West’s better-known communities of comparable size.

Our scrutiny included such factors as the proximity of recreational opportunities, higher education and medical care.

And an airport. From our last residence, we found it necessary to drive as long as six hours to access air service. Now, in Durango, we’re closer to air service than we ever were in the past.

There is no overlooking the benefits local air service provides to the county and city. Similarly, no one should doubt that Durango enjoys some of the greatest economic vitality on Colorado’s Western Slope.

Even so, there have been negatives. Airport traffic exceeded current capacity in 2008 and has continued to grow. Facilities and services have been stretched to the breaking point.

Our current terminal is, in effect, a glorified tent. And I have waited close to an hour to simply exit the parking lot because of malfunctioning parking fee kiosks.

If La Plata County can not or will not upgrade its airport, future air service will almost assuredly suffer and fliers may choose to drive to Grand Junction or Albuquerque. They will spend their money there, too, not in La Plata County. Vacationers considering Durango may go elsewhere.

The airport is a major economic driver for the county and the Four Corners. Perhaps the most decisive advantage to acting now on the proposed airport expansion is that more than half the estimated costs will be paid by FAA grants and user fees. There is no guarantee that FAA grants will be available in the future if we pass up this current opportunity.

I urge voters to weigh the advantages and benefits the airport provides to La Plata County and to vote in favor of ballot measure 1B.

David Stiller

Durango