Coshocton Foundation makes leadership grant for airport hangar campaign
COSHOCTON – Coshocton Richard Downing Airport has received a $90,000 grant from the Coshocton Foundation to support the airport’s Corporate Hangar campaign. The new 7,040 square foot hangar will provide overnight and short-term storage for business and private aircraft with space for three medium jets or other airplanes and helicopters.
“We are delighted with the Coshocton Foundation’s commitment to Richard Downing Airport,” said Bethel Toler, airport administrator. “Their leadership gift has provided a critical first step toward our $700,000 campaign goal.”
Bob Pell, executive director of the Coshocton Foundation, considers the grant an investment in the local economy. “Richard Downing Airport is a vital component of Coshocton County’s transportation infrastructure. Many local companies depend on private flight operations to support their businesses including efficient transportation for clients and key associates. Ideally the new hangar and expanded airport operations will help attract new businesses to our community.”
“Our underlying philosophy is to fund projects that improve quality of life in the community,” said Greg Coffman, chairman of the Coshocton Foundation Distribution Committee. “This is a long-term investment in a community asset. Improved airport access and amenities can help catalyze local economic development including manufacturing, tourism, and hospitality. We envision increased employment opportunities and improved standard of living for area residents as businesses expand and relocate to Coshocton County.”
Pell continued, “We hope the Coshocton Foundation’s grant will inspire other foundations, corporations, and individuals to support this important project.”
Opened in 1969, Coshocton Richard Downing Airport is a nonprofit community airport operated by the Coshocton County Regional Airport Authority. The airport features a 5,001 foot runway, modern terminal, long term aircraft hangarage, and fueling service. The airport currently handles an average of 200 lightweight aircraft monthly and more than 80 jet aircraft per year. In addition to airport operations the 360 acre complex is home to MMS Aviation, MedFlight, Specialty Jeep, and the Ohio Army National Guard.
The Coshocton Foundation was established in 1966 and has distributed more than $7.5 million in grants from its Unrestricted Fund to community organizations in the areas of: Literacy & Education; Encouragement of the Arts; Community Improvement; Health & Welfare; and Parks & Recreation. In addition, the Foundation has 150 Restricted Funds from which distributions are made for specific purposes. More information about the Coshocton Foundation may be found at www.coshoctonfoundation.org.
For additional information about airport operations and the corporate hangar project, contact Bethel Toler, airport administrator, Coshocton Richard Downing Airport, at BethelToler@coshoctoncounty.net or 740-622-2252.
Category: Business
