Wyoming Tribune Eagle, Tim Bradshaw

Cheyenne Regional Airport is continuously looking at ways to enhance and modernize to serve the Cheyenne community better. And improve we have.

As a community, we have built upon the success of our new terminal, which provides a range of new amenities to strengthen our airport and benefit our local community.

In a dynamic city like Cheyenne, improving our airport is critical, given its vital role as a connector to national and global markets and as a welcoming gateway to our city. Upgrading our airport’s infrastructure is key to attracting more travelers, boosting tourism and fostering economic growth.

Moreover, Jerry Olsen Field plays an important role in supporting national security efforts. As the primary operating base for the Wyoming Air National Guard and the Wyoming Army National Guard, we have a unique civil-military partnership that is not just essential, but also a source of pride for our community, supporting the Wyoming Military Department’s vital work.

Our community’s strong support for the airport was evident when voters passed a sixth-penny sales tax in 2021 to extend the parking lot. The ballot initiative passed with significant backing, (60.9% of the vote), demonstrating residents’ solid commitment and support for our airport. The commitment underscores why people choose to fly from Cheyenne — for its convenience and community spirit.

An additional enhancement is the installation of a new jet bridge. The bridge eliminates the need for passengers to walk outdoors on the tarmac and stairs. We in Wyoming know that the weather can be a challenge, making walking outside unpleasant — and sometimes even treacherous for folks on crutches, using a walker or pushing a stroller.

With funding provided by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Bill, the new jet bridge is a game-changer for us in Cheyenne, and it was built with passenger safety and comfort in mind.

I am also pleased to mention that the airport recently received federal funding to restore the airport control tower and rehabilitate the facility, which is aged and in need of modern updates. We look forward to completing this renovation to improve the work areas so that our air traffic control staff can work more efficiently.

Investing in the future success of the facility also means facing the tough challenges that come our way. For example, navigating the 2023 runway closure and fix, which replaced 3,600 feet of our primary runway. This 160-day project was an absolutely necessary, given runways only last about 50 years. While we faced multiple obstacles in this project, I am so pleased we could get this done. Now we have a fully reconstructed runway that meets FAA standards.

I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to work alongside this wonderful community. Together, we have accomplished so much, and I want to express my appreciation for the support and confidence you have shown in the Cheyenne Regional Airport. With an eye toward the future, we will continue to make this airport a vital part of our Cheyenne community.

Fly local, fly from home, fly Cheyenne.