The Addison County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors wholeheartedly supports the expansion of the Middlebury State Airport. As an organization whose goal is to support the economic prosperity and opportunities for the businesses and people of Addison County, we believe the expansion is much needed.
The airport serves not just Middlebury but the entire county as part of our regional transportation infrastructure. The impending upgrades to Middlebury’s downtown railway tunnels will bring improved rail service, resulting in greater access to travelers (business and pleasure). In the same vein, airport improvements will contribute to our local economy from additional businesses establishing themselves at the airport and beyond, more businesspeople using the airport to meet with local industry, and increased tourism whether they are day trippers or second home owners.
VTrans has made it clear that the airport’s runway and taxiways are deficient in regard to the pavement quality and that tree growth makes the approach paths unsafe, particularly on hot days. These upgrades need to be made sooner rather than later to ensure flight safety.
Airport expansion has been discussed in fits and starts for the last 20 years. The chamber’s board believes now is the right time to move ahead with the plan VTrans has proposed.
Chamber President Sue Hoxie
on behalf of the Addison County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors
Middlebury