| Item Title: | Planning & Development-Fabens Airport Crosswind Runway Declassification | | Submitted By: | Jose M. Landeros, Director, Planning & Development Department (915) 546-2015 | | Subject: | Discuss and take appropriate action on the declassification of crosswind runway 16/34 at the Fabens Airport. | | Background: | Staff has been coordinating various improvements at the Fabens Airport with the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) currently funded under the Routine Airport Maintenance Program (RAMP). At the 95 percent design meeting with TxDOT, they shared concerns on the shorter runway currently present at the site. Specifically, TxDOT described that the cross-wind runway does not meet minimum standards to actually be classified as a runway as it lacks the necessary width, length, approach clearance and proper markings. At this time, TxDOT has recommended that the County reclassify the runway as a taxi lane. It is important to note that TxDOT has the authority to reclassify the runway since they have already identified it as noncompliance with acceptable runway standards. TxDOT has also indicated they will not authorize the spending of improvement dollars on this runway in its current status. The County’s fixed-based operator, Olivas Aviation, confirmed that the runway is mainly utilized for touch-and-go landings, having no significant impact on the utilization of existing operations at the airport. The reclassification will not affect the General Aviation (GA) Airport standing nor prevent the County from securing TxDOT Aviation funds in the future. Further, the reclassification of the runway will resolve an encroachment issue on the southern corner of the runway that is currently located on private property. Upon reclassification, necessary modifications may be made to the new taxi lane. | | Fiscal Impact: | None | | Recommendation: | Approve and authorize the Planning & Development Department to declassify the crosswind runway at the Fabens Airport. Further, authorize staff to notify the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) of the declassification. | | Prior Action: | None | | Strategic Plan: | .. | | Strategic Plan Information: | |
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