5 hours ago
Routt County has obtained a $3 million federal grant to support infrastructure improvements at the Yampa Valley Regional Airport’s Aviation Business Park. This initiative is expected to stimulate economic growth and generate jobs throughout Northwest Colorado, according to a statement released on Friday.
The funding, provided by the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Economic Development Administration, will be used to construct a new taxi lane, install utility systems, and prepare land parcels for future aviation and commercial tenants.
The grant application was a joint effort involving Routt County, the town of Hayden, and the Yampa Valley Electric Association, with significant support from Routt County Economic Partners and the Northwest Colorado Development Council.
Officials noted that the Northwest Colorado Innovation Center’s proposed Aviation Technician Apprenticeship Program, developed in collaboration with Colorado Northwestern Community College, was a key factor that strengthened the application.
Airport Director Tinneal Gerber described the investment as “the final grant funding step for the future” of the business park, commending former director Kevin Booth for laying the groundwork to secure this opportunity.
The project is anticipated to create more than 230 jobs and attract $75 million in private investment, enhancing the region’s aviation industry and overall economic resilience.
