Airport Releases Long-Term Plan

The plans call for updating multiple airplane hangars, improving runways, and leasing land owned by the airport along route 28.

The airport submitted an environmental impact report to the state, opening a public comment period that ends October 19th.

"It's possible but not certain that all of the improvements in the master plan will be undertaken," said Airport Manager Roland "Bud" Breault. "But considering the potential, it's important that we identify potential environmental effects and outline a plan to mitigate them."

According to Breault, the airport's plan follows Cape Cod Commision and Town of Barnstable standards and would restrict the use of hazardous chemicals.

The plan calls for the treatment of storm water runoff before it seeps into the ground and would dischage new wastewater into the town's sewer system.

Any new development woud include green design and renewable enenergy capabilities.

"The focus of these mitigation measures is the continued protection of the goundwater that serves our community," said Airport Commission Chairman Ronald Persuitte. "The goal is to reduce our overall environmental footprint as we plan to enhance our facilities."

Once the state approves the long-range plan the airport will finalize a development agreement with the Cape Cod Commisison.