Airport board working on strategic plan

March 01 -- TERRE HAUTE -- A long-term strategic plan for the local airport is nearing completion, according to officials.

Bill McKown, executive director of the Terre Haute International Airport, told his board of directors Wednesday evening that what has heretofore been a "work in progress" is almost ready for publication.

"This is the baseline of our marketing plan and where we want to go in the future," he said while displaying a PowerPoint program including animated graphics and music.

Plans for future growth are detailed to the month and year of expected completion, but overall goals include establishing a positive economic development impact on the region, attracting industry and providing a "world-class aviation facility," he said.

Input from stakeholders throughout the community will continue to be solicited through the plan's completion, he said.

In other business, McKown said a request for proposals has been issued for a new restaurant to locate at the airport. The former tenant closed on Feb. 16, and the request was issued the next day, he said.

The announcement and associated details are available on the airport's website, huf.com, and they have also been distributed throughout the community via groups such as the Terre Haute Chamber of Commerce, he said.

The deadline for proposals will be 4 p.m. March 20.

Brian Boyce can be reached at 812-231-4253 or brian.boyce@tribstar.com.

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