California Aviation Systems Plan – System Requirements Element / 2003 / California Department of Transportation

Principal automobile access to Arcata-Eureka Airport is via Highway 101 and Airport Road. Bus service is provided by Redwood Transit System and Amtrak. Other ground services are provided by Door-to-Door Airporter shuttle, taxicab companies and numerous local hotels.

The Arcata-Eureka Airport is a non-hub, primary commercial airport providing airline and general aviation services. It is the only airport in the county offering scheduled airline services, which are provided daily by Horizon Airlines, United Express, and Delta Airlines. The U.S. Coast Guard Search and Rescue Base is also located at this airport, providing emergency services to the community and outlying rural areas.

The Arcata-Eureka Airport encompasses 745 acres. Aviation-related buildings include: a terminal with three airlines, three car rental agencies, a restaurant, a conference room, Humboldt County Airports Division Offices, FAA and TSA offices, a warehouse and equipment storage building; fuel attendant office; and a maintenance shop with an aircraft rescue and fire fighting barn to house fire fighting equipment. Aircraft parking includes: 25 marked tie downs; 55,000 square foot large aircraft apron;and one corporate hanger; rage. Primary Runway 14-32 is 5,998 feet long and 150 feet wide. Runway 01-19 is 4,499 feet long and 150 feet wide.

A major terminal expansion project is in progress at the Arcata-Eureka Airport. In 1999, construction of a general aviation ramp was completed on the north side of the airport that includes space for private development of 12 box hangars and three tie-downs and room for the county to construct a bank of 17 T-hangars. From1994 to 1997, airport improvements focused on safety improvements (e.g., installation of runway and taxiway signs and safety areas upgrades) and pavement/drainage repairs.

Increasing airline passenger numbers and security needs to meet new TSA requirements following the events of 9/11 were the driving force for the terminal expansion project, which is adding 10,000 square feet to the existing terminal. The expansion, combined with reconstruction of the existing terminal, will improve the security passenger waiting area, enlarge the baggage return area, consolidate the checked luggage security area, and return the second floor public area (which was taken over by the TSA) to airport patrons who are meeting or greeting passengers. The expansion will also include measures to comply with Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) standards and system upgrades.

The Arcata-Eureka Airport is also served on a daily basis by several dedicated cargo companies (e.g., Federal Express, United Parcel Service, AmeriFlight, and Union Flight). In 2007, approximately 234 metric tons of cargo was enplaned and 548 metric tons of cargo was deplaned at the Arcata-Eureka Airport. During the first four months of 2008, approximately 54 metric tons of cargo was enplaned and 116 metric tons of cargo was deplaned. The metric ton cargo activity numbers highlight the important role that the Arcata-Eureka Airport plays in Humboldt County’s Goods Movement system.

Dinsmore Airport

Dinsmore Airport provides air access to the unincorporated community of Dinsmore, in an isolated area of eastern Humboldt County. This airport is located about a quarter mile east of Dinsmore, in a winding canyon of the Van Duzen River Valley. Hills immediately adjacent to the airport rise 1,000 feet above the runway elevation. Use of the airport requires mountain flying knowledge, and use of common (nonstandard) approach/departure paths. Automobile access to Dinsmore Airport is from State Route 36, which wraps around the airport’s northern boundary.

This airport operates in daytimes only. It has one runway, Runway 9-27, which is 2,504-feet long, 50feet wide and oriented roughly east-west. Aircraft parking is located at the east and west apron areas north of each runway end. At present, airport property totals approximately 23 acres (owned in fee-simple) and 426 acres (easements). Developed land on the airport is dedicated to apron and runway pavement. The airport does not have any onsite fueling stations.

Garberville Airport

Garberville Airport is located approximately one mile southwest of Garberville and serves the Garberville-Redway area. It rests on a bluff, at an elevation of 551 feet above mean sea level. The south fork of the Eel River runs to the east and south of the airport. Terrain rises rapidly to the west, and elevations up to 1,000 feet higher than the runway are within one mile of the airport. Automobile access to Garberville Airport is from the east via Sprowel Creek Road. US 101 is located two miles farther east and provides a direct connection to Sprowel Creek Road.

Garberville airport has one runway, Runway 18-36, which is 2,783 feet long, 75 feet wide and can accommodate aircraft with wingspans of up to 49 feet and approach speeds of less than 121 knots. A specialized aviation service operator was established at Garberville Airport in May of 2006. Services offered by the operator include flight training, aircraft rental and a pilots lounge. The airport also has aircraft parking and fueling facilities.

Kneeland Airport

Kneeland Airport is sited on a butte about 15 miles southeast of the City of Eureka. ). It is 2,737 feet above mean sea level -- above the common low weather conditions – and serves, principally, as an alternate landing site to the four airports in the Humboldt Bay area (Arcata-Eureka, Eureka Municipal, Murray Field and Rohnerville) when these airports are temporarily closed due to fog (which can develop quickly, and often unpredictably). This airport is also a vital venue for flight training and small-package delivery; however, it often becomes inundated by small-package, time sensitive, delivery aircraft when the four Humboldt Bay airports are closed.

Kneeland airport encompasses 14 acres. It has one runway, Runway 15-33, which is 2,235 feet long and 50 feet wide. Its pavement is in excellent condition, and the terrain falls sharply, immediately beyond the runway ends. The airfield is not lighted, has standard visual runway markings, and a small aircraft tiedown apron, located midfield, along the westerly property line. The apron consists of six marked tiedown positions. Informally, the apron can accommodate six additional aircraft. A wind cone is located midfield on a hill east of the Airport. The California Department of Forestry’s heliport and associated buildings are located immediately west of this Airport. Principal automobile access to Kneeland Airport is via US 101, Kneeland Road, and Mountain View Road.

Murray Field Airport

Murray Field sits at an elevation of 10.5-feet above mean sea level (MSL). This airport lies immediately east of Humboldt Bay. It is bounded by Fay Slough to the north, and to the southwest and east by Eureka Slough. Murray Field Airport encompasses 131 acres. It has one runway, Runway 11-29, and includes a connecting taxiway system, one Fixed Base Operator (FBO) facility, and aircraft storage and parking areas. The main building area is located in the southwest quadrant of the airport. The runway is 3,011 feet long, 75 feet wide, and is oriented roughly northwest-southeast. Runway 11-29 offers non-precision instrument approach capabilities and can accommodate aircraft with wingspans of up to 49 feet, and approach speeds of less than 121 knots. The U.S. Coast Guard conducts training maneuvers at this Airport. Automobile access to Murray Field is from Jacobs Avenue, via US 101. Jacobs Avenue follows the airport’s southern boundary. US 101 borders the airport to the west, adjacent to Humboldt Bay.

Services for pilots and aircraft are provided by a single major FBO, Northern Air. Northern Air has operated at the airport for over 40 years. Fuel (100LL), transient aircraft parking, aircraft rental, flight instruction, and engine maintenance repair are among the services available. Northern Air utilizes two large hangars leased from the county.

Federal Express, UPS, and AmeriFlight have been serving Murray Field for over 10 years. Federal Express (FedEx) operates from a ramp east of the aircraft storage area, where Federal Express employees distribute and prepare packages for shipment from FedEx trucks to FedEx aircraft. Fed-Ex aircraft operates four flights per day. AmeriFlight aircraft operate from the main apron, receiving packages from United Parcel Service (UPS) ground delivery trucks. In 2007, approximately 448 metric tons of cargo was enplaned and approximately 462 metric tons of cargo was deplaned at Murray Field. During the first four months of 2008, approximately 157 metric tons of cargo was enplaned and 140 metric tons of cargo was deplaned there.

Rohnerville Airport

Rohnerville airport is located 0.8 miles south of Fortuna. It serves the City of Fortuna, Rohnerville and surrounding communities of west-central Humboldt County. This airport is situated atop a plateau, overlooking the Eel River, amid rural residential and undeveloped land. Its runways end at rapidly falling terrain, south of the airfield. Vehicular access to Rohnerville Airport is from Airport Road via Drake Hill Road and US 101.

The airport has one runway, Runway 11-29 which is 4,007 feet long and oriented roughly northwest/southeast. Runway 11-29 offers non-precision instrument approach capabilities. There are two banks of hangars, located at the west end of the airport, consisting of box hangers, T-hangars and portable T-hangars. Fifteen tie-downs are positioned between these hangars. The transient apron is located mid-field and consists of five tie-downs, and one portable T-hangar. A pilots’ lounge is immediately west of the transient apron. Fuel is dispensed from a self-fuel card operated system.

A California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE) station has been operating on the east side of Rohnerville Airport since 1964. The CAL FIRE station is an air attack base, as well as a fire-fighter training facility. CAL FIRE equipment includes water and retardant tanks, one hangar used to store helicopters, an apron that provides parking for up to four aircraft and a fuel dispensary.

Eureka Municipal Airport

Eureka Municipal Airport is located on a peninsula, west of downtown Eureka and Humboldt Bay. Its sole runway is 2,700 feet long and 60 feet wide. This runway is not lighted, and night operations are prohibited. The airport has 11 hangars for public use and ten runway tidedowns. It also has an onsite Bed and Breakfast located in the building that was used for administrative purposes when the airport served as base during WWII. Approximately 10 aircraft are based at this airport. It is used, primarily, for recreational and personal business purposes. No aviation services are available.

Shelter Cove Airport

Shelter Cove Airport is located one mile west of the community of Shelter Cove. Its sole runway is 3,400 feet long and 75 feet wide. This runway is not lighted, and night operations are prohibited. The airport has no based aircraft. Aircraft parking is available, and camping, hotel rooms, restaurants and other retail services are located adjacent to the site.

Humboldt County Airport Land Use Commission

The California Public Utilities Code, Sections 21670 et seq., sets the statutory authority for establishment of Airport Land Use Commissions (ALUC) and the adoption of the airport land use compatibility plan. Every county in which a public use airport is located is required to establish an ALUC. Its charge is expressly stated as being to, “protect public health, safety, and welfare by ensuring the orderly expansion of airports and the adopting of land use measures that minimize the public’s exposure to excessive noise and safety hazards within areas around public airports to the extent that these areas are not already devoted to incompatible uses” (Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan Humboldt County Airports, March 1993).

The Board of Supervisors is the designated ALUC for Humboldt County. It authorizes the Humboldt County Aviation Advisory Committee (AAC) to advise them on aviation matters within the county. There are nine AAC committee members.

The Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan Humboldt County Airports sets forth the criteria and policies, which the ALUC uses in assessing the compatibility between the public use airports in Humboldt County and proposed development in areas surrounding them. It emphasizes reviews of local general and specific plans, zoning ordinances, and other land use documents covering broad geographic areas. The plan specifically pertains to the land uses surrounding the following airports: Arcata-Eureka, Dinsmore, Garberville, Hoopa, Kneeland, Murray Field, Rohnerville and Shelter Cove Airports.

The plan contains compatibility criteria and airport compatibility maps that are utilized by the ALUC to determine if proposed land uses are compatible with airport operations. The compatibility criteria and maps provide a single, combined set of zones and associated criteria, covering each of the basic types of airport impacts (i.e., noise, safety, airspace, and overflight), to facilitate project review. It contains criteria for building heights, restrictions on the use of land, and standards for building construction. These criteria contain standards to be achieved, rather than a list of specific uses which are permitted in each zone.

California Aviation System Plan

The California Aviation System Plan (CASP) is prepared by the California Department of Transportation (Caltrans), Division of Aeronautics, and updated every five years per California Public Utilities Code Section 21701, et seq. The law requires the CASP to be developed in consultation with Regional Transportation Planning Agencies, such as HCAOG. The primary purpose of the CASP is to develop and preserve a balanced system of airports responsive to the needs of the state. This process considers airport interdependency, airspace, public demand for aviation facilities, and ground access. It also takes into account the interactions of local, regional, state, and national aviation needs.

The System Requirements Element is one of ten Elements and Working Papers that comprise the CASP. The Systems Requirements Element identifies and prioritizes needed airport capacity, along with safety related infrastructure enhancements that impact the California Aviation Transportation System safety and effectiveness. It emphasizes enhancement projects at General Aviation and Reliever Airports. The focus on the two types of facilities, rather than commercial service airports, is a result of funding mechanisms. Commercial service airports seldom apply for project funding from the Division’s four funding programs. The document focuses on areas wherein the state’s limited financial resources may best be applied, to enhance the California Transportation System. Airport project funds are derived solely from General Aviation fuel excise taxes.

The CASP identifies airports as Limited Use, Community, Regional, Metropolitan, and

Commercial/Primary to distinguish how each airport functions to serve the community, region, state, or nation.

Needs Assessment

Information for this section was obtained from the Humboldt County Airport Master Plans, the CASP, and discussion with local agency staff.

An airport’s airfield design is shaped by a small set of external key factors, or demand determinants, which in turn define the airport’s fundamental needs. The demands placed on an airport can be defined in terms of three key parameters: the total volume of aircraft operations, the types of aircraft seeking to operate at the airport, and the weather conditions that affect those operations. The demands translate into facility needs, and the needs are assessed with respect to four design factors, which include: the runway length needed to serve the critical aircraft; the classification of the runways and taxiways for design purposes; the adequacy of the runway/taxiway system capacity; and the adequacy of the runway system wind coverage. Environmental constraints (e.g., terrain) can also play a role in defining an airport’s needs, in relation to the expected demand. Table AS2 details the based-aircraft aviation activity forecasts for six of the nine Humboldt County Airports:

Table AS2 Aviation Activity Forecast – Based Aircraft

Aircraft type	Based Aircraft Forecast
Aircraft type	2010	2015	2020	2025
*Arcata-Eureka*
Single-Engine	6	8	11	15
Twin-Engine	2	3	4	5
Turbo-Prop	1	6	6	6
Jets	2	3	6	10
Helicopter	4	4	4	4
*Total*	15	24	31	40
*Dinsmore*
Single-Engine	2	4	6	8
Twin-Engine	0	0	0	0
Jet	0	0	0	0
Helicopter	0	0	0	0
*Total*	2	4	6	8
*Garberville Airport*
Single-Engine	20	21	21	22
Twin-Engine	2	2	4	5
Jet	0	0	0	0
Helicopter	0	1	1	1
*Total*	22	24	26	28
*Kneeland Airport*
Based Aircraft	0	0	0	0
*Total*	0	0	0	0
*Murray Field*
Single-Engine	91	92	93	94
Twin-Engine	12	13	14	15
Jet	2	3	3	4
Helicopter	1	1	2	2
*Total*	*106*	*109*	*112*	*115*
*Rohnerville*
Single-Engine	31	32	32	33
Twin-Engine	5	5	5	5
Jet	1	1	2	2
Helicopter	1	1	1	1
*Total*	38	39	40	41

The Eureka Municipal Airport and Shelter Cove Airport are not anticipated to experience increases in based aircraft within the 20 year timeframe of the RTP.

Table AS3 details the annual operations aviation activity forecasts for six of the nine Humboldt County Airports:

Table AS3 Aviation Activity Forecast – Annual Operations

Operation Type		Annual Operations Forecast
Operation Type		2010	2015	2020	2025
*Arcata - Eureka*
Itinerant	Air Carrier	11,650	11,700	11,675	11,650
	Air Taxi	4,650	5,600	6,450	7,300
	General Aviation	9,700	9,800	9,950	10,100
	Military / Government	0	0	0	0
	Dedicated Air Cargo	1,250	1,400	1,625	1,850
	Sub Total	27,250	28,500	29,700	30,900
Local	General Aviation	7,700	7,800	7,950	81,00
	Military / Government	15,000	15,000	15,000	15,000
	Dedicated Air Cargo	550	700	800	900
	Sub Total	23,250	23,500	23,750	24,000
	*Total*	*50,500*	*52,000*	*53,450*	*54,900*
*Kneeland*
Itinerant	Single-Engine Fixed	3,000	3,000	3,300	3,300
	Single-Engine Variable	2,000	2,000	2,000	2,000
	Sub Total	5,000	5,000	5,300	5,300
Local	Single-Engine Turboprop	50	50	100	100
	Helicopters	500	500	500	500
	Light Twin-Engine	50	50	100	100
	Single-Engine Fixed	500	500	800	800
	Single-Engine Variable	400	400	700	700
	Sub Total	1,500	1,500	2,200	2,200
	*Total*	*6,500*	*6,500*	*7,500*	*7,500*
*Dinsmore*
Itinerant	Air Carrier	0	0	0	0
	Air Taxi	0	0	0	0
	General Aviation	1,045	1,105	1,170	1,236
	Military / Government	0	0	0	0
	Sub Total	1,045	1,105	1,170	1,236
Local	General Aviation	630	665	700	740
	Military / Government	0	0	0	0
	Sub Total	630	665	700	740
	*Total*	*1,670*	*1,770*	*1,870*	*1,975*
*Garberville*
Itinerant	Air Carrier	0	0	0	0
	Air Taxi	0	0	0	0
	General Aviation	7,475	7,896	8,340	8,809
	Military / Government	0	0	0	0
	Sub Total	7,475	7,896	8,340	8,809
Local	General Aviation	8,542	9,022	9,530	10,066
	Military / Government	0	0	0	0
	Sub Total	8,542	9,022	9,530	10,066
	*Total*	*16,017*	*16,918*	*17,870*	*18,875*
*Murray Field*
Itinerant	Air Carrier	0	0	0	0
	Air Taxi	160	170	180	190
	General Aviation	21,360	22,560	23,830	25,170
	Military / Government	320	340	360	380
	Sub Total	21,840	23,070	24,370	25,740
Local	General Aviation	48,050	50,750	53,600	56,620
	Military / Government	0	0	0	0
	Sub Total	48,050	50,750	53,600	56,620
	*Total*	*69,890*	*73,820*	*77,970*	*82,360*
*Rohnerville*
Itinerant	Air Carrier	0	0	0	0
	Air Taxi	0	0	0	0
	General Aviation	11,360	12,020	12,710	13,450
	Military / Government	390	390	390	390
	Sub Total	11,750	12,410	13,100	13,.840
Local	General Aviation	17,620	18,610	19,660	20,760
	Military / Government	0	0	0	0
	Sub Total	17,620	18,610	19,660	20,760
	*Total*	*29,370*	*31,020*	*32,760*	*34,600*

The Eureka Municipal Airport and Shelter Cove Airport are not anticipated to experience increases in aircraft operations within the 20 year timeframe of the Regional Transportation Plan.

Arcata-Eureka Airport

The Arcata-Eureka Airport is the only non-hub primary commercial service airport in Humboldt County. This airport handles the region’s commercial traffic and serves a critical role in the region’s air transport network, providing access to national and international air service. It is also a major link in Humboldt County’s goods movement system. The Arcata-Eureka Airport is working towards and will benefit from a balanced 14/32 Runway of 6000 feet to meet its existing and future needs. Improvements will be coordinated to have a minimum impact on runway safety and object free areas.

Government Code 65081.1 requires primary air carrier airports with annual enplanements over 10,000 to have an Airport Ground Access Improvement Program. The program addresses the development and extension of mass transit systems, major arterial and highway widening and extension projects and any other ground access improvement projects that a planning or airport management agency deems appropriate. The Arcata-Eureka Airport has annual enplanements over 10,000, but an Airport Ground Access Improvement Program has not been developed.

Dinsmore Airport

The principal factors affecting future operational levels at Dinsmore Airport are runway length and non-standard approach and departure procedures. The runway length is 766 feet shorter than required for 75 percent of small airplanes with 10 passenger seats or less. However, due to the rapidly rising terrain, the location of Highway 36, and dense forest cover surrounding the east and west sides of the airport, the costs associated with an extension or realignment of the runway would be disproportionately high for a small gain. Given the constraints, it is recommended that Humboldt County request a modification of FAA standards to maintain the current width of the runway, to allow part of Highway 36 to remain inside the runway safety area, to allow nonstandard conditions with regard to the object free area for Runway 9-27, and to maintain tiedowns within the aircraft parking limit. Planned Dinsmore Airport improvements include: Runway repair and overlay with required markings, enhancement of the wind sock and segmented circle, the improvement of existing fencing and installation of new gates. It is also recommended that space be established and preserved for aircraft storage facilities, in case demands increase.

Garberville Airport

Aircraft parking is the most extensive aviation-related use of land at the Garberville Airport. It is anticipated that eight additional aircraft will be based at the airport within the 20-year time frame of this RTP. Additional parking space may be required, to meet future demand for airport based aircraft. A reconfiguration of the existing space could add ten additional new tiedowns.

If demand for services increases at Garberville, the Master Plan outlines development to be completed in two phases – Phase II would occur within a 7 to 13 year timeframe and Phase III would occur in a 14 to 20 year timeframe. Phase II development includes extension of the existing apron further to the north, construction of two taxiway exits, a combination of tiedown parking positions and new aircraft storage units, and designated parking in the undeveloped area north of the core building area.

Phase III development would occur in the west building area of the airport. Phase II development would include new hangers and apron construction, vehicle access to the west building area, and vehicle parking.

Kneeland Airport

This airport’s ability to provide the facilities necessary to accommodate anticipated demand is based on the overall development potential of its site. The principal factor affecting operational levels at Kneeland Airport is runway length. The published runway length at Kneeland Airport is 2,235 feet, which is 885 feet shorter than required for 75 percent of small airplanes with 10 passenger seats or less. However, the Kneeland Airport site has three primary constraints affecting development, which are as follows: Kneeland Prairie pennycress, the topography and soils, and the California Department of Forestry base.

Kneeland Prairie pennycress is a perennial herb found in the coastal uplands of Humboldt County. In February 2000, Kneeland Prairie pennycress was placed on the California Endangered Species list. The only known population is scattered within an area on, and immediately adjacent to, the airport. The Kneeland Prairie pennycress population is bisected into two colonies by the airport’s runway. It is a designated critical habitat, which precludes modification of the airfield. This environmental constraint is the most significant factor restricting future expansion of airport facilities. In addition, Kneeland Airport is situated on top of an isolated ridge, surrounded by mountainous open space; the terrain drops off immediately beyond the ends of the runway. Based on a geotechnical study conducted in 2001, topographic and geologic conditions surrounding the facility severely limit the expansion potential of the runway and the ability to satisfy the FAA’s new runway setback requirements. Finally, the California Department of Forestry base is located immediately west of the airfield.

Murray Field Airport

Currently, wildlife fencing and hangar development are priority needs. It is recommended that land on the south-southwest side of the airport, consisting of approximately two acres, should be preserved for future aviation development (i.e., based aircraft storage and parking). There is also approximately three acres to the north of the airport that would be appropriate for development of an apron, hangars, tiedowns, vehicle parking, and access road. The building areas at Murray Field Airport are constrained by wetlands and would require prior approval by the Army Corps of Engineers before development.

Rohnerville Airport

The 2007 Rohnerville Airport Master Plan outlines a phased development plan that would expand airport facilities to accommodate the projected growth. Development plans include reconfiguration of the based and transient tiedown aprons, construction of a new taxiway, expansion of the transient apron, construction of new aprons, construction of T-hangers or tiedowns, perimeter fencing and new runway lighting.

The current runway length can accommodate 100 percent of small aircraft with less than 10 passenger seats, excluding larger California Department of Forestry aircraft. Rohnerville Airport is significantly limited in its potential to extend its runway because it is located atop a plateau. However, the Master Plan recommends improvements to the runway safety area. Runway and taxiway lighting systems have been upgraded with an automated weather observation system programmed in the airport federal grant program for fiscal year 2009/2010.

Eureka Municipal Airport

Although Eureka Municipal Airport is classified as a Community General Aviation Airport, it does not meet all the minimum standards for this classification. The airport does not have 24-hour on-field weather services or an instrument approach procedure. Enhancement needs identified by CASP for Eureka Municipal include: a wider and longer runway, runway pavement improvements, visual approach slope indicator equipment, instrument approach procedures and fuel availability. City of Eureka staff identified a need for 10 new T-hangers.

Shelter Cove Airport

Although Shelter Cove Airport is classified as a Community General Aviation Airport., it does not meet all the minimum standards for this classification. The airport does not have 24-hour on-field weather services or an instrument approach procedure. Enhancement needs identified by CASP for Shelter Cove include: wider and longer runway, runway pavement improvements, visual approach slope indicator equipment, instrument approach procedures, fuel availability and security fencing around the perimeter of the airport. Shelter Cove staff identified a need to straighten the runway.

Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan Humboldt County Airports

Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan Humboldt County Airports was written in March of 1993. The plan should be updated to ensure that the compatibility criteria and policies adequately reflect public health and safety concerns, reflect infrastructure improvements that have been made at various airports, and record any changes that have occurred.

Guiding Goals, Policies, and Objectives

The goals, policies and objectives address the issues identified in the Needs Assessment element, and reflect the short- and long-range projects identified in the Action Element below. The goals, policies and objectives are also consistent with the Financial Element, specifically identifying project and program areas that should be included in the RTP, in order to leverage funding. Changes have been made to the goals, policies and objectives that reflect an emphasis on safety and a commitment to long term planning.

Goal: Provide continued support to the Humboldt County Aviation Division of the Public Works Department, City of Eureka, the Resort Improvement District Number 1, and the Hoopa Valley Business Council, to maintain and manage the facilities and services at the public-use airports in Humboldt County and to maximize linkages to the national aviation network.

Policy AS-1: Maintain and expand scheduled passenger airline service in and out of Humboldt County.

Objective: Identify facility improvement projects that would retain, expand and/or attract scheduled passenger airline service for inclusion in the Regional Transportation Plan.

Objective: Encourage inter-modal coordination, to compliment scheduled passenger airline service (e.g. secure bicycle storage).

Policy AS-3: Promote full utilization of air freight capabilities in Humboldt County.

Objective: Maintain a current inventory of available airfreight services in Humboldt County and identify where additional capacity exists; disseminate this information to businesses with existing and potential future demand for those services.

Objective: Develop a marketing plan for airfreight services in Humboldt County.

Objective: Include projects and programs that would improve, expand or add additional air freight capabilities at Humboldt County Airports in the Regional Transportation Plan.

Goal: Provide support and coordination for the continued operation of safe and efficient aviation facilities in Humboldt County.

Policy AS-4: Encourage long-term airport planning in the region.

Objective: Maintain the utility of Humboldt County airports by encouraging airport operators (e.g., the City of Eureka, the Hoopa Valley Business Council, and the Resort Improvements District Number 1) to review airport needs every five years, regularly update airports plans, and implement capital improvement programs.

Policy AS-4: Support the Humboldt County Airport Land Use Commission's efforts to ensure that proposed development in the vicinity of airports is compatible with airport activities.

Objective: Support and encourage the Airport Land Use Commission to update the 1993 Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan Humboldt County Airports.

Objective: Promote the City of Arcata, City of Eureka, City of Fortuna, Humboldt County, and the Hoopa Valley Business Council, to use their land use authority to ensure that land use and development around the airports are consistent with the Airport Land Use Compatibility Plan Humboldt County Airports.

Objective: Request annual reports on airport activities, needs and planned projects from the Airport Land Use Commission to the HCAOG Board.

Action Plan: Proposed Projects

The Humboldt County Aviation Division of Public Works Airport Capital Improvement Plan (ACIP), the Airport Master Plans, and direct input from local agency staff were the primary sources used in determining projects for each airport. The projects address the needs that have been identified for each airport and/or anticipated needs based on long-term demand increases.

The projects listed may or not have the funding available for implementation. The Humboldt County Aviation Division of Public Works ACIP and the Airport Master Plans serve as outlines for the next five to twenty years; projects may change based on funding, FAA priorities or national emergencies such as 911. Although the funding is not secure, and funding priorities change, projects need to be listed in an ACIP or Master Plan in order to be eligible for various funding streams. The projects in table AS4 reflect short-term (0-10 years) and long-term (11-20 years) projects.

Table AS4 Proposed Projects

Description	Total Cost	Fiscal year
*Arcata-Eureka Airport*
Design runway safety areas	$300,000	2008-09
Construct safety area	$5,000,000	2010
Construct runway lighting enhancements	$787,500	2010
Construct fire station	$3,700,000	2010
RnR Twy B&G / drainage (design completed 2006)	$508,802	2011
Design runway extension	$300,000	2012
Construct runway extension	$5,000,000	2013
Construct terminal covered walkway	$325,000	2011-2017
Seal runway 14-32, parallel taxiways and exits	$950,000	2011-2017
Install PAPI for runway 19	$60,000	2011-2017
Seal public parking lots and access roads	$115,000	2011-2017
Seal east hangar access and taxilanes	$35,000	2011-2017
Seal Coast Guard access road	$40,000	2011-2017
*Sub Total*	*$17,121,302*
*Dinsmore Airport*
Runway and ramp rehabilitation and reconstruction	$135,450	2008
Design and construct windsock and segmented circle	$55,000	2008
Design westend storm drain improvements	$50,000	2010
Construct westend storm drain improvements	$290,000
Design Fencing and Gates	$38,000	2010
Construct Fencing and Gates	$166,400	2011
Design and Construct Phase I Improvements, which include aircraft storage units and tiedowns (if demand materializes)	$645,600	2012-2017
*Sub Total*	$*1,380,450*
*Garberville Airport*
Design and construct underground storm drainage for runway safety area enhancement	$68,000	2010-2011
Implement an automated weather observation system	$100,000	2009
Construct Ramp Reconstruction, Rehabilitation, and Expansion	$562,500	2009
Design Runway Rehabilitation and Reconstruction	$52,500	2011
Construct Runway Rehabilitation and Reconstruction	$297,500	2012-2013
Design Relocation of Wind Cone and Segmented Circle	$20,000	2014-2028
Relocate Wind Cone and Segmented Circle	$20,000	2014-2028
Design and Construct Phase II Improvements, which includes extension of the existing core area apron to the north, tidedowns, storage units and space for a new fixed base operator (as needed)	$1,420,000	2013-2019
Design and Construct Phase III Improvements, which includes new apron and hanger sites and new taxiway system connected to the runway (as needed)	$784,000	2020-2026
*Sub Total*	*$3,324,500*
*Kneeland Airport*
Environmental Assessment for Stabilization of Runway 33	$157,250	2008 - 2009
Design stabilization	$107,800	2009
Construct stabilization	$1,077,600	2010
Design fencing and gates	$45,000	2010
Construct fencing and gates	$350,000	2011
Steal coat and re-marking	$60,000	2012
Design tie-down area	$60,000	2013
*Sub Total*	*$1,857,650*
*Murray Field Airport*
Design wildlife perimeter fencing and gates	$63,000	2008
Construct wildlife perimeter fencing and gates	$500,000	2009
Design upgrade of runway and taxiway lighting system and connecting security lights to emergency generator	$63,000	2009
Construct upgrade of runway and taxiway lighting system	$278,000	2010
Implement an automated weather observation system	$100,000	2009
Design runway and taxiway reconstruction and rehabilitation	$63,000	2011
Construct runway and taxiway reconstruction and rehabilitation	$753,000	2012
Design entrance road rehabilitation	$40,000	2010
Construct entrance road rehabilitation	$480,000	2011
Design and Construct Phase I improvements, which includes reconfiguration of the existing tiedown apron and construction of aircraft storage units (as needed)	$455,300	2008-2010
Design and construct Phase II improvements, which includes design and construction of North Building Area (as needed)	$1,360,000	2011-2015
Design and construct Phase III improvements, which includes design and construction of South Building Area ( as needed)	$335,000	2016-2025
*Sub Total*	*$4,490,300*
*Rohnerville Airport*
Implement an automated weather observation system	$100,000	2009
Construct ramp reconstruction and rehabilitation	$660,450	2010
Construct runway and taxiway reconstruction and rehabilitation	$933,000	2011
Design and construct Phase II improvements, which includes design and construction of Southeast Building Area (as needed)	$1,081,300	2012-2017
Design and construct Phase III improvements, which includes design and construction of Northeast Building Area (as needed)	$1,263,000	2018-2025
*Sub Total*	*$4,037,750*
*Eureka Municipal*
Design and construct ten T-hangers	$205,000	2010-2028
Installation of runway lights	$230,000	2010-2028
Construction of parallel taxiway	$390,000	2010-2028
Construction of security fencing	$100,000	2010-2028
*Sub Total*	*$925,000*
*Shelter Cove*
Design and construct runway rehabilitation and reconstruction	$	2010-2028
*Sub Total*	$0
*TOTAL*	*$33,136,952*

Financing

The previous section presented a list of projects that would assist in meeting the airports’ identified needs, or projected needs if demand increases. Local counties, particularly rural counties, have few resources available to finance the projects outlined in the Action Plan. This section presents funding sources available for project implementation. There are a variety of resources from which funding and financing for general aviation airport facilities and improvements can be obtained. These resources include federal grants, state grants, bonds, airport self funding and private investment.

It is difficult to assess anticipated revenue streams, due to funding priority shifts that occur on a regular basis. The Humboldt County Aviation Division of Public Works has been successful in obtaining federal grants to complete projects outlined in the Past Accomplishments section below. The Humboldt County Aviation Division of Public Works does not receive a share of the general fund and as a result, relies on successful acquisitions of grant funds. The City of Eureka and Shelter Cove Airports are funded via the State of California Annual Grant program. Each airport receives a $10,000 annual grant. It is anticipated that both airports will continue to receive the State of California Annual Grant for the twenty year timeframe covered by the RTP.

Federal Aviation Grants

A common source of federal aid for airport facilities is the Airport Improvement Program (AIP), which is administered by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The current AIP program, reauthorized in 2000, is the latest evolution of a funding program originally authorized by Congress in 1946 as the Federal Aid to Airports Program (FAAP). The program is based upon a user trust fund concept, allocating aviation-generated tax revenues for specified airport facilities, on a local matching-share basis. The program currently provides 95 percent federal participation and five percent local participation on small primary, reliever and general aviation eligible airport projects in California.

The Airport Improvement Program (AIP) provides grants to public agencies and, in some cases, to private owners and entities, for the planning and development of public-use airports that are included in the National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems (NPIAS). The six county owned airports are registered in the NPIAS. Eligible projects include those improvements related to enhancing airport safety, capacity, security, and environmental concerns. In general, AIP funds can be used on most airfield capital improvements, hangars, and non-aviation development. Professional services necessary for projects (e.g., planning, surveying, and design) are eligible, as is runway, taxiway, and apron pavement safety enhancements. Aviation demand at the airport must justify the projects, which must also meet Federal environmental and procurement requirements. Projects related to airport operations and revenue-generating improvements are typically not eligible for funding. Operational costs such as salaries, maintenance services, equipment, and supplies are also not eligible for AIP grants.

Because the demand for AIP funds exceeds the availability, the FAA bases distribution of these funds on current national priorities and objectives. AIP funds are typically first apportioned into major entitlement categories such as primary, cargo, and general aviation. Remaining funds are distributed to a discretionary fund. Set-aside projects (airport noise and the Military Airport Program) receive first attention from this discretionary distribution. The remaining funds are true discretionary funds that are distributed according to a national prioritization formula.

State of California Airport Grant and Loans

The Division of Aeronautics within the California Department of Transportation administers four different programs which provide funding for airport improvements. These funding programs are discussed below.

Acquisition and Development Grant Program

The Division of Aeronautics Acquisition and Development (A&D) Grant Program is similar to the federal AIP grant program in that the state program provides airport development funds on a matching-share basis. The state provides 90 percent and the local jurisdiction provides 10 percent. The state grants are allocated through the California Transportation Commission and are governed by the priorities set forth in the State Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) and the CASP.

A&D grants can be used for construction projects, land acquisition and planning projects such as Master Plans and airport layout plans. The minimum grant amount is $10,000 and the maximum is $500,000. The amount available statewide for these grants is the remaining funding available in the Aeronautics Account after funding State operations, Annual Grants and AIP Matching Grants.

Annual Grant Program

The California Division of Aeronautics administers an Annual Grant Program, through which all qualifying publicly-owned airports in the state receive $10,000 per year to be used for eligible projects. Funds received must be kept in a Special Aviation Account, and with the permission of the Division of Aeronautics, can be accumulated for up to five years toward a larger capital project. The funds can also be used as part of a local match for federal grants. This program is intended to assist general aviation airports. Commercial service and reliever airports are not eligible for this annual grant.

Airport Loan Program

The California Division of Aeronautics also makes available a State Airport Land program. The program was established to allow public airport owners the opportunity to borrow funds for an 8 to 15 year term, at lower than commercial interest rates. Airport Loan Program funds can be used on specified revenue generating projects and as the local share of FAA grant funded projects. The most common use of these lands is for revenue-producing hanger construction and development of aviation fuel storage and dispensing facilities.

AIP Matching Grants

These are State grants, to eligible airports, for a portion of the required match for the Federal Airport Improvement Program grants. This program provides a funding amount equal to 5 percent of the FAA funding amount (4.5 percent of total project cost). The remaining match must be provided by the local agency; however, the Annual Grant funding can be applied toward this match. In order for projects to be eligible for the AIP and the AIP Matching Grants, they must be included in the State Transportation Improvement Program. State matching funds can only be used for airport and aviation purposes.

Airport Sponsor Self-Funding

The Humboldt County Aviation Division is a self-supporting enterprise fund. Humboldt County’s general funds are not used to support any of the Division’s six airports. At commercial service airports the size and character of Arcata-Eureka, airport sponsor self-funding is principally provided by a combination of airport-generated income and retained earnings. Funding airport improvements that are not grant eligible, and providing the local matching share for grants-in-aid from airport-generated income, is the simplest and often most economical method for use of the funds because direct interest costs are eliminated. Airports such as Kneeland Airport have limited revenue generating capacity and are supported solely by Aviation Division revenue and various federal and state funding programs. Kneeland Airport’s limited funding comes from non-aviation sources such as providing a favored backdrop for companies filming car commercials.

Passenger Facility Charge

Since 1992, airports have been authorized to charge airline passengers a fee, known as a passenger facility charge (PFC), which the airlines collect as an add-on to the airfare. The maximum fee was originally set at $3 per leg of a flight, which a maximum of $12. Beginning in 2000, Congress authorized an increase in the maximum PFC rate to $4.50 per segment, with a cap of $18 for a roundtrip. These fees are dedicated to capital improvements that preserve or enhance the safety, capacity or security of the national air transportation system; reduce noise; or enhance competition between or among air carriers. Each PFC application is tied to specific capital improvement projects that have been approved by the airlines, FAA and the county. New projects may be approved under a separate application. The Arcata-Eureka airport is currently charging $4.50 for flights at the airport. Funds are used to provide the required matching funds for AIP grants and projects that may be critical to the airport, but not a priority to the FAA.

Private Investment

Private sector investment is an important source of funding for some types of airport improvements. The most common sources of funding for private sector development are commercial lending institutions and insurance companies. Pilots’ groups, community groups or businesses with links to an airport, will sometimes donate funds for specific airport projects. In the case of private development on public lands, these types of financing may be difficult and expensive to obtain, because the borrower can encumber only the improvements as loan collateral. It is essential that agreements be reached with tenants that provide for adequate airport revenues and facility development, while encouraging private investment and satisfying tenants’ borrowing requirements.

Accomplishments since the 2006 RTP

The information contained in this section identifies projects known to be completed since the adopting of the 2006 Regional Transportation Plan.

Arcata-Eureka Airport

· Updated Arcata-Eureka Airport Master Plan

· Constructed a general aviation ramp on the north side of the airport

· Began passenger terminal expansion and renovation project

· Environmental analysis for runway 00-19 and 14-32 safety area improvements

· Updated 5-year FAA Airport Capital Improvement Plan

· Addition of Delta as an air service carrier to Salt Lake City

· Removal of hazards to airspace

Dinsmore Airport

· Updated Dinsmore Airport Master Plan

· CEQA environmental analysis for projects outlined in Master Plan

· Drainage improvement project

· Runway overlay

· Removal of hazards to airspace

· Updated 5-year FAA Airport Capital Improvement Plan

Garberville Airport

· Updated Garberville Airport Master Plan

· CEQA environmental analysis for projects outlined in Master Plan

· Upgraded fuel system to a cardlock system that allows 24 hour self-fueling

· Designed and constructed security fencing and gates

· Phase I of ramp design and expansion project

· Updated 5-year FAA Airport Capital Improvement Plan

Kneeland Airport

· Updated Kneeland Airport Master Plan

· Runway overlay and marking project

· Updated 5-year FAA Airport Capital Improvement Plan

· Completed an EA/EIR study for the repair of areas that eroded due to weather

Murray Field Airport

· Updated Murray Field Airport Master Plan

· Updated 5-year FAA Airport Capital Improvement Plan

· Repainted runway markings

· Removed hazards to airspace

· Replaced existing fencing with security fence and gates

· Installed security equipment

· Environmental analysis for construction of a wildlife fence, hangar development and lighting upgrades

Rohnerville Airport

· Updated Rohnerville Airport Master Plan

· Updated 5-year FAA Airport Capital Improvement Plan

· CEQA environmental analysis of projects outlined in Master Plan

· Erected security fencing and automated gates

· Undergrounding of overhead wires

· Replaced runway and taxiway lighting

· Changed lighting conduit

· Surveyed and marked Private hanger development sites

· Phase I of Master Plan ramp extension project

· Repainted runway markings

· Installed security equipment

Airport	Location	Owner
Arcata-Eureka Airport	McKinleyville	Humboldt County
Dinsmore Airport	¼ miles east of Dinsmore	Humboldt County
Garberville Airport	1 mile southwest of Garberville	Humboldt County
Kneeland Airport	Kneeland	Humboldt County
Murray Field Airport	3 miles east of Eureka	Humboldt County
Rohnerville Airport	0.8 miles south of Fortuna	Humboldt County
Eureka Municipal Airport	City of Eureka	City of Eureka
Shelter Cove Airport	Shelter Cove	Shelter Cove Resort
Hoopa Airport	Hoopa	Hoopa Valley Tribal Council