The Russell County Airport is doing much more than serving pilots. Local leaders say it’s also playing an important role in economic development and helping position Russell County for future growth.
Airport Board Chairman John Stivers says the airport is an important asset that can help attract new business and industry by giving corporate leaders and potential investors a positive first impression of the community.
The Russell County Airport features a modern terminal facility that opened about three years ago. The building includes pilot resting quarters, a conference room available for public or corporate meetings, a kitchen, restrooms, and a tourism kiosk provided by Russell County Tourism. Stivers says those amenities help create the kind of welcoming atmosphere that can make a lasting impression on visitors considering investing in the area.
Stivers says the airport has developed a reputation that extends well beyond Russell County.
A quality airport is often considered a key piece of infrastructure for economic development, providing businesses with convenient access to a community while supporting investment, job creation and long-term economic growth.
In the second part of our special report, WJRS News will talk with Chairman John Stivers about the noticeable increase in air traffic over the past several years, the variety of aircraft and visitors now using the airport, and the improvements and future projects planned for the Russell County Airport.