SE Valley Times

A recent Chandler City Council work session provided an overview of the Chandler Municipal Airport's (CHD) current projects and strategic business plan. The meeting also initiated discussions for a future community impact study.

Airport Manager Ryan Reeves highlighted that, according to the 2021 Airport Master Plan, CHD needs development in the next 10 to 20 years to meet industry demand. Significant infrastructure improvements have been made over recent years to prepare for growth.

Projects include upgrading control tower equipment, installing a wildlife perimeter fence, increasing emergency ingress points, building an operations garage, resurfacing parking lots and runways, and creating an aircraft observation area. These projects have largely been funded by federal and state grants, with more than $5 million received since 2021 from the FAA and Arizona Department of Transportation. The city's local match was nearly $133,000.

Reeves noted that CHD is not receiving its fair market share of business aviation. The strategic business plan aims to address this by generating more revenue, reducing expenses, securing additional funding, relying less on subsidies, and creating jobs.

City staff began working with a consultant on the airport's first-ever strategic business plan earlier this year. A steering committee consisting of city staff and key stakeholders emphasized that business aviation development should not hinder general aviation support.

The strategic plan includes three phases: preparation, development, and implementation. So far, market assessments and a SWOT analysis have been completed. Draft mission statements were reviewed by the Council with plans for further refinement.

Key findings from the SWOT analysis were shared during the session: CHD contributes $55 million to the state's economy with nearly 500 jobs created. Out-of-state visitors spend $11.5 million annually resulting in over $20 million in employee earnings.

Financial recommendations included restructuring financial statements for better performance evaluation; adjusting fuel flowage fees; establishing common area maintenance fees; and ensuring lease rates remain at market value.

The community impact study will explore how a runway extension could benefit Chandler. Staff are engaging with organizations like the Chandler Chamber and Greater Phoenix Economic Council to foster community relationships. An open house event marked renewed outreach efforts after seven years.

The study will be conducted through 2025 using a four-phased approach involving internal and external stakeholders alongside city staff to execute comprehensive communication plans.

Updates on both initiatives will continue being shared with the Council for approval as progress is made.