Item 6: ConnectOregon Grant Application for Air Cargo Project

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Q ATTACHMENT A ~ . EUGENE ~ AIRPORT l\ir Cargo Project Eugene Airport 2006 Air Cargo has always played an important role in the viability of the Eugene Airport. The movement of goods remains an essential component of the economic vitality and development of the Southern Willamette Valley. Prior to September 11, 2001 scheduled airlines and small package entities actively transported cargo and mail through the Eugene Airport utilizing the cargo hold capacity on commercial aircraft or the services of air cargo haIidlers. Due to current security measures, the use of scheduled airlines for US mail delivery has all but <;eased putting an even bigger burden on the exclusive cargo carriers. This shift also means more freight was redirected to trucking, placing a higher burden on 1-5. The changing landscllpe of air freight/cargo means that the Eugene Airport must move forward to accommodate the changing needs of shippers and air freight/cargo handlers using the airport as a gateway to the region. Current conditions make it difficult to support the expanding freight/cargo business with an open air truck-to-truck ramp operation. Further, some existing facilities at the airport are antiquated and need modernization, or are deficient for the needs of users. The Connect Oregon grant creates an. opportunity for the Eugene Airport to meet immediate needs and be positioned for future growth in this important segment of the State of Oregon's intermodal transportation system. The movement of goods in and out of the region by air is centered at Eugene and the regions' economy relies heavily on the continuation of accessibility and the efficiency of delivery services for local businesses. The proposed expansion will support continued business groWth, help insure the retention of jobs, and stimulate new employment in.the region by strengthe~gthe intermodallinks that support the movement of products and time sensitive materials. Additionally, quieter, more fuel efficient aircraft will be able .to use the new facility. Recently completed airfield improvements at the Eugene Airport have improved safety and reliability, moving Eugene to the top of quality air transportation facilities in the. Northwest. The Connect Oregon grant will enable Eugene to leverage federal Airport Improvement Program funds for the project creating the appropriate environment to attract new activity, and expand capacity for existing air freight/cargo companies. Improved reliability, on-time performance and relieving pressure from the congested 1-5 corridor will be of significant benefit to the community for many years to come. _ J The Eugene Airport's proposal includes the extension of existing taxiways, expansion of the air cargo ramp to accommodate larger aircraft and consolidation of existing operations, and the construction of a freight/cargo facility enabling air freight/cargo companies to conduct business more efficiently in all weather conditions. The proposed building is designed with the expandability and flexibility to handle scheduled. airline freight, incumbent small packllge shippers and air cargo carriers not currently operating at the airport. Approval of this multi-million dollar project would also create substantial local area employment during the construction period I . j Since the airport has already conducted the necessary planning, amended appropriate land. use documents, completed the necessary land purchases, upgraded adjacent airfield facilities, .examined environmental impacts, and consulted with users, the Eugene Airport is ready to initiate the project subject to the determination that financial support would be available. The granting of State -monies through the Connect Oregon legislation .comes at a pivotal time. The value received from this proposed enhancement to Oregon's transportation system makes this project a top priority for the Southern Willamette Valley. J . J .J