Airport To-Do List Pressed

A list of repairs and maintenance projects at East Hampton Airport was discussed on Tuesday by the town board and consultants who have been hired to establish priorities for the work over the next five years.

Pilots and other airport observers have been critical of the town for lagging on necessary projects, and Town Supervisor Larry Cantwell pressed the consultants continually about how to get the ball rolling.

“There’s a lot of frustration that the town has not kept up on safety and maintenance that most people agree is necessary at the airport,” Mr. Cantwell said. “The inaction of the town is being questioned — legitimately, I think.”

The projects include the installation of an automated weather observation system, (its purchase has already gone out for bids), the removal or flagging of obstructions such as trees or power lines in a runway clear zone, as required by the Federal Aviation Administration, and completion of a perimeter fence for security and to thwart deer, which, consultants said, could be completed this year.

Also on the list are the completion of a taxiway parallel to the main runway, pavement repairs on the runways and near the airport terminal, and the development of a pavement management program to keep on top of cracks and the like, an upgrade of the aviation fuel farm, and a study of wind conditions and runway usage to facilitate decisions about which runways should remain open.

“I think the board is anxious to move forward as quickly as possible. The truth is, we’re behind the eight-ball here,” Mr. Cantwell said, “and we’d like to catch up.” Although the airport’s needs are longstanding and predate his administration, Mr. Cantwell told the consultants, “My message to you guys is let’s get going.”

The board is expected to appoint members of a new airport advisory committee at its meeting tonight. Councilwoman Kathee Burke-Gonzalez said  three people from the aviation community, three community members affected by aircraft noise, and three who have legal or financial background will be appointed.

Councilman Peter Van Scoyoc recommended adding another member, someone with a background in real estate, and was asked to suggest who it might be.

The new committee will be asked to weigh in on the prioritized list of airport projects, Ms. Burke-Gonzalez said.