On June 22, 2017, the Port of Hood River held a public meeting at the W.A.A.A.M. museum to hear public comment on increased operations at the Ken Jernstedt Airfield, and to provide information on upcoming development projects.
After an introduction from Port Development and Property Manager Anne Medenbach and TacAero VP Jeremy Young, attendees were welcomed to speak and ask questions.
Attendees asked questions focused on the reasons air traffic was concentrated on the south side of the airport versus the north side; why pilots weren’t adhering to “Fly Friendly” practices over Schull Drive and why they fly so low over houses; whether there were plans for a new restaurant or B&B facilities at the airport; whether new hangars would be located in orchard land; and anticipated operational changes in 5, 10, years and beyond.
Attendees provided comments on touch and go flights for pilot training and the schedules of the trainings; a request for the staff presentation to be made available in text form, including flight logs; stating the need for a standardized flight path, noting that aircraft have crashed nearby; residents living near Nobi’s Gas Station stating that aircraft buzz their house; and comment on a bike/pedestrian path to Orchard Road.
Attendees expressed concerns about any future jet traffic; timing of operations being too early in the day; glider tow plane take off noise being too loud; helicopters flying too low during special events; TacAero planes are noisier than other aircraft; light pollution; requested for clarification on traffic access to the north side, and whether all traffic could be routed through Air Museum Road; whether the Port coordinates with the County on Tucker Road improvement plans and requests for a bike path on Tucker Road; vehicles speeding on Airport Drive; several comments about the disconnect of Orchard Road, urging reconnecting Orchard Road and an automatic gate on the east side of the airport for the Benton Property; and whether glider operations will be expanding and how to mitigate the noise of the glider tow aircraft. Attendees also expressed support for the STEM programs at the airport and general support for aviation industry.
A second public meeting is planned for August to provide answers to questions and propose solutions. Date and time are still to be determined, but public notice will be issued ahead of the meeting.
The Airport Layout Plan is available to view and download here.
The informational presentation given by staff at the meeting is available to view and download here.
For more information, contact Anne Medenbach via email to amedenbach@portofhoodriver.com.