A year ago voters were in no mood to commit to providing $40 million or so to construct a new and much larger Durango-La Plata County airport terminal in a new location on the east side of the runway. The vote was just about 2-to-1 against.
Now, what to do to improve the existing terminal with its limited space?
The airport commission is proposing to use operating profits to make some additions to the airlines’ operating space behind the check in counters. Employees are squeezed, currently, and the additional space could allow another airline room to operate. About $465,000 will be required.
Earlier this year the commission was also considering refitting the large-item luggage arrival location (used for skis, for example) to include handling the much more frequent passenger suitcases and duffel bags. The north end of the baggage arrival area, which now is not fully utilized, would be better put to use.
And, outside, the commission would spend money – $350,000 – on parking lot maintenance, water storage, snow removal and security.
The work, with the approvals of both the city and the county (co-owners of the airport), would take place next year.
Prior to last November’s failed election, those who supported constructing a new terminal urged haste in order to avoid having to spend piecemeal on some of these kinds of improvements. Without bond money for new construction, modest improvements funded by available revenues will be the order of the day.
The small size of the Durango terminal often has appeal for passengers. Ticket counters, security, the luggage carousel and rental cars are all within a short walk. But when a couple of jets are departing or arriving, it becomes crowded, and unloaded luggage takes longer to reach passengers. And for airline employees, space to receive checked luggage and for administrative needs is severely limited.
Even modest improvements are welcome.
We look forward to seeing a strategic development plan for the airport. While FAA grants provide some welcome funding, as long as there is no positive vote to tax, any improvements will come in small doses.
