Collier Commissioners forgo Joint Workshop on Naples Airport Relocation
Collier County commissioners recently decided against a joint workshop with the Naples Airport Authority to evaluate a potential relocation of the airport within the county’s boundaries. This decision reflects a growing sense of concern among local leaders about the financial costs and logistical challenges entailed in such an undertaking.
During an Aug. 27 meeting, the Board of County Commissioners informally rejected the workshop proposal. Commissioner Dan Kowal, who represents the district surrounding Naples Airport, sought their thoughts on the matter only to find a lack of enthusiasm. “It’s an inordinate expense for us to be giving consideration to a report that was done without any communication,” observed Commissioner Bill McDaniel Jr., suggesting that the timing wasn’t right for holding any discussions.
In a rather contemplative tone, McDaniel noted that the airport relocation has long been an emotional topic. The sites proposed for relocation have sparked a range of sentiments, invoking both nostalgia for the airport’s rich history and concerns for its future. “(The sites) are in District 5, and they never even called me, so I don’t have any interest in pursuing relocating that airport,” he remarked with a hint of exasperation. The conversation took a turn toward the practical when Commissioner Burt Saunders suggested pausing the discussion until a site is actually identified and in need of rezoning.
The Naples Airport has been at the heart of community dialogue, especially after years of complaints about noise from residents living near it. In response, the Naples Airport Authority (NAA) commissioned Environmental Science Associates from California to conduct an exploratory study. They identified four potential locations in eastern Collier County for a new airport site, but construction is projected to span eight to twelve years, well into 2040, with an estimated cost that could reach an astonishing $1.6 billion.
The proposed locations stand as reminders of the ever-evolving landscape of aviation and urban planning. Locations considered include:
- Site A: Positioned east of the county landfill, approximately 9 miles from the current airport.
- Site B: The Lipman Family Farms area off U.S. 41, roughly 11 miles away.
- Site C: Sunripe land, south of Oil Well Road, about 23 miles away.
- Site D: Immokalee Regional Airport, about 30 miles away.
Much of the community remains skeptical of the proposed sites. The authority has invested millions into mitigating noise pollution, seeking to ameliorate conflicts with residents living under flight paths. Initiatives like the Fly Safe, Fly Quiet program aim to recognize operators who adhere to curfews and minimize disturbances. Interestingly, Naples Airport, which first served as a military airfield in 1943, operates without taxpayer funding, primarily leasing its land from the city and contributing $781 million annually to the local economy.
Kowal urged cooperation between the county manager and city manager to ensure efficient utilization of taxpayer dollars. “They’re using a lot of their tax dollars to do these studies,” he remarked, reflecting on the lengthy timelines involved. “I don’t want to see any more wasted tax dollars if this really doesn’t have any traction.”
Throughout this process, the emotional undercurrents reveal a community caught between honoring its past and confronting an uncertain future. Balancing the need for progress with the echoing memories of the past is no easy task. As Collier County navigates these discussions, the hope remains: that a suitable solution can emerge, one that reflects the values and needs of both residents and local authorities.
