Key West Real Estate: Airport Upgrades Planned for The Keys

We have two public airports in the Florida Keys, one in Key West and one in Marathon. Both airports help keep our tourist industry flowing with visitors year round. There have been upgrades done on the airports through the years, but it is time for a few more, according to the Monroe County Airports Director. It was recently announced that Monroe County is planning some new upgrades for the airports. Before anything is set, there will be a 30-day public comment period opened up, which could begin very soon. The public comment period will give residents and travelers the chance to learn more about the upgrades and make note of questions, concerns, or suggestions.

Foremost in the upgrades to be planned is an addition to one of the runways at Key West International Airport. Adding in another 280 feet of runway will help alleviate safety concerns which have been growing alongside the growing number of larger aircraft, and the frequency of those types of flights over the years. The costs to expand the highway are estimated at $750,000. If Monroe County approves the plan and the Federal Aviation Administration does as well, we could see this project begin by early 2017.

There are also additional plans to improve the security at both airports with higher fences and new surveillance cameras. The actual plans won’t be confirmed until after the public comment period is over. Most of the funding for these upgrades will come from the airport fee that all departing passengers must pay. At $4.50 per person, the Florida Keys sees about $1.3 million each year. Proceeds from this fee have already helped to improve the baggage systems at Key West International Airport. The funds also helped with the moving of landing lights and demolition of old hangars at Marathon International Airport.

If you live in the area, or are visiting, improvements to our airports will help make travel easier no matter if you are coming or going. If you’re ready to sell or buy a home in the Key West area, please contact me, Jimmy Lane, for all of your real estate needs.