Nestled on 424 acres of pristine land approximately seven miles from the heart of Waterbury, Connecticut, lies the Waterbury-Oxford Airport. Established for public use in 1969, this General Aviation (GA) airport has been a pivotal force in connecting the city of Waterbury and the surrounding communities to the rest of the nation and even the world.
Waterbury-Oxford Airport has played a vital role in putting the city of Waterbury on the map as an essential GA hub. Serving corporate, business, and recreational flight operations, it boasts the highest GA activity in the state of Connecticut. This strategic location has provided a crucial gateway for travelers and businesses, offering connectivity to the United States at large and now, thanks to recent developments, internationally.
Economic Impact
One of the most compelling aspects of the Waterbury-Oxford Airport is its substantial economic impact on the region. It contributes over $230 million to the local economy, which encompasses 122 jobs and $122 million in business labor income. These numbers underscore the significance of the airport as a driving force behind the region's economic growth.
Key Partnerships
The success and growth of Waterbury-Oxford Airport would not have been possible without strong partnerships. Atlantic Aviation, a fixed-based operator (FBO), has been a cornerstone of the airport's operations, providing a comprehensive suite of services, including aircraft fueling, maintenance, and flight planning. Notably, Atlantic Aviation partnered with the Connecticut Airport Authority (CAA) to develop a US Customs and Border Protection facility at the airport, a crucial advancement for international travel and trade in the region.
Furthermore, the addition of Clay Lacey as the second FBO brings an additional $40 million investment to the airport. This will result in over 100,000 square feet of hangar storage space and FBO terminal facilities. The CAA's continuous investment, including the full reconstruction of the runway in 2018 and the rehabilitation of the taxiway, has strengthened the overall health and activity of the airfield.
Community Impact
The Waterbury-Oxford Airport is not just important for the city of Waterbury; it serves as a vital resource for the entire region, benefiting neighboring towns and communities. The airport has become a catalyst for growth, fostering economic output, development, and construction in the area. This ripple effect has led to increased property values and real estate development in Waterbury and its surroundings.
The Waterbury-Oxford Airport is more than just a landing strip; it's a cornerstone of economic growth and connectivity for Waterbury and its neighboring communities. Its role as a thriving GA hub, along with strategic partnerships and ongoing investments, has transformed the region's economic landscape. The airport's impact extends far beyond its runways, spurring development and enhancing the Waterbury real estate market. As investments continue to pour into this aviation hub, the future looks promising for Waterbury, CT, and its dynamic regional airport.
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