The Columbia Regional Airport Master Plan
A look to the future
One of the area's most important assets – Columbia Regional Airport … has plotted its course for the future. A comprehensive master plan has been completed that maps COU’s future … as a gateway to the City and region.
Plan Overview
The master plan recommends the facilities necessary to satisfy forecast community needs through 2020 and includes new and expanded facilities for: Business, Corporate, and Private Aviation Air Cargo, and Improved Airline Service.
It is estimated that the capital improvements recommended in the master plan will cost approximately $45 million over the entire 20 year period. However, anticipated federal funding assistance and passenger facility charges will pay for most of the capital improvement program. The net cost to the City of Columbia is estimated at approximately $3.6 million over 20 years.
View The Master Plan adopted by the Columbia City Council November 17, 2003, Resolution 251-03.
Master Plan Table of Contents
Adopted by the Columbia City Council November 17, 2003, Resolution 251-03.
Project Sponsorship
Recognizing the importance of Columbia Regional Airport as a vital community asset, the City of Columbia commenced this update of the previous master plan prepared in the early 90's. Funded through a grant from the Federal Aviation Administration, the primary goal of this effort was to develop a realistic plan that will guide the development of the airport well into the new millennium.
The Master Plan Process
A comprehensive master planning process was undertaken. Key elements of the process included:
- Extensive survey and gathering of information relative to community needs and desires
- Evaluation of existing conditions and facilities to identify deficiencies
- Forecasting of future aviation activity " Identification and evaluation of existing and future needs
- Development of a plan to best serve the City of Columbia.
Project Mission
The overall mission of the project was to work with the community in developing a plan that will ensure that Columbia Regional Airport serves Community needs - both short and long term. Accordingly, the project involved coordination efforts with the community and local government.