Branson Airport Groundbreaking
Branson Airport's groundbreaking ceremony was held this morning at 9:30. As expected, every media outlet within a 100 mile radius attended. A KRZK sound-bite had investor (it's a pseudo-governmental agency) and local billionaire Glenn Patch saying people who fly spend 40% more than people who drive to Branson. The opening is slated for May 2009 and will be the nations first privately funded commercial airport.
The project comes at a $140 million dollar expense. Liability for issued bonds is limited to the Transportation Development District which required Patch to give the land to the County.
Patch's project, Branson Creek, will be a major beneficiary as are local politicians with significant investments in the area. The 7140 ft runway will be able to land commercial planes though no liner has officially been named (names of airlines in the negotiation process have been whispered).
Speculation over tension between Springfield and Branson were silenced by Branson Mayor Raeanne Presley who publicly stated the airport is not about competition... Member of the Springfield-Branson Airport have voiced the same sentiment. Pictures will be posted later....
