Sioux Falls City Counsellors are spearheading efforts to fund airport expansion

SIOUX FALLS, SD (KELO.com) — They believe the Sioux Falls Airport plays a major role in South Dakota’s economy and economic development.  Because of that, the Dakota Scout reports Sioux Falls City Councilors Richard Thomason and Rich Merkouris are spearheading an effort to help fund a major expansion of the airport.

The City Council has given preliminary approval of an interest free 5-million dollar loan for the project, contingent on the state contributing five million as well.  Airport Executive Director Dan Letellier tells KELO-AM news the expansion is sorely needed, saying there are times throughout the day now where it’s standing room only on the concourse.  He says failure to add more gate space now will result in higher airfares later as airlines compete for gate space.

For the time being, airport officials have decided to start the expansion on a scaled down basis.  They will break ground next month on nearly 69-millon dollars in improvements to the airport.