Southern Oregon has seen significant growth during the last five years, and The Rogue Valley International Medford Airport (MFR) has been a major benefactor of its continued progress.
Although a commercial air service airport is more often defined in terms of its passenger numbers, the truth is the general aviation and non-aeronautical sectors on the airport play a largely critical role in its overall sustainability. An airport that is well managed will have a very diversified portfolio, with both aeronautical and non-aeronautical businesses contributing to the airport fund.
“Economic Development at the airport is an on-going effort that we are committed to at MFR”, stated Jerry Brienza, Airport Director. “The airport has experienced an uptick in activity and we are trying to accommodate the demand.”
The Airport recently purchased 38.11 acres of developable land on the east side of its airfield. The property will be marketed to a wide array of businesses. Brienza says, “If we land an aeronautical company, then we move the airport fence to include the land and proposed buildings; however, if we land a non-aeronautical company (one that does not need immediate access to taxiways or runways), then we keep them outside the fence. Either way, the revenues will come back to the Airport to help fund its operations and maintenance programs.”
The property is located in both a City Enterprise Zone as well as a US Opportunity Zone, each of which have tax breaks for potential investors. Economic Development Manager Jason Foster said “I hope to see a company, or companies, who want to enjoy good weather and short commutes use this property to expand or relocate their business.”
With this latest purchase MFR looks to strengthen its position as a major economic hub for the region.
