History
The original concept for the airport was born on February 15, 1944. A chairman was appointed and a committee was formed to begin work developing an airport to serve the region. The site for the new airport along South Michael Road was located and approved in October, 1944.
St. Marys Borough Council accepted the airport project with the stipulation that no taxpayer money would be required for building, improving or operating the airport. Local industry, such as the local powder medal manufacturers, strongly supported the airport since the beginning.
The airport officially opened on June 30, 1950 with a 3,700' x 75' runway. Following the opening, the existing Hoffman residence was renovated into an administration building. In 1954, a runway rehabilitation project that extended the paved portion of the runway to 2,400' was completed. Since then, there have been millions of dollars in Federal, State, and local funds invested in the airport. In 1998,the airport completed a major runway rehabilitation program. The entire runway surface was replaced along with the repair and rehabilitation of the drainage system, lighting, taxiways, and the apron. In 1999, a large commercial hangar was constructed that is presently used for minor repairs, overhauls, and the repair of damaged aircraft. A new terminal and restaurant were recently constructed, as well as the addition of an airport industrial park. Victor Straub is the current Chairman of the Airport Authority.
Read more about this topic: St. Marys Municipal Airport
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