OTTUMWA, IOWA — The city of Ottumwa is expanding the use of the Ottumwa Regional Airport.
Tuesday night, the city council approved a hangar with a 25 year lease.
The purchase of the land for the hangar was a joint collaboration between the city, Ottumwa Economic Development Cooperation and Winger.
The project cost is just over $62,000.
City Administrator Joe Helfenberger says the current economic impact of the airport brings in $6.5 million a year and with the new hangar, it’s expected to grow to $11 million a year.
“It creates a lot more business and it will help with jobs and the expansion of businesses in the area,” Helfenberger said.
The project will also include an additional three hangars to be constructed.
Construction on the recently approved has already begun.
Winger is in installing sewer and water infrastructure.
The city has also received $264,000 in federal grants for apron extension and repairs.
They are also trying to standardize policies and building construction at the airport.
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