OC Airport expansion plans grounded
By Bob Lassahn

During the November 21 meeting of the Worcester County Commissioners Sandy Coyman, director of Comprehensive Planning presented a draft letter regarding environmental concerns related to a proposed expansion of the Ocean City Airport. The town is presently considering extension of both runways and other upgrades to the existing facility.

While the particular focus of the letter is environmental the commissioners made it clear that they are generally opposed to the planned expansion and would prefer to state that position emphatically in their response. Among other concerns the expansion would require relocation of 1.4 miles of MD Route 611 by approximately 1,000 feet to the west of its present course. Expansion to the east is restricted due to wetlands issues

According to the town the extension of the runways would allow some of the aircraft using the facility greater operational latitude. At present some of these aircraft are restricted regarding their take-off weight and must reduce their fuel load.

Included in the discussion was a mention that the Salisbury airport is currently expanding its operational capabilities. The commissioners see little advantage to the proposed Ocean City airport expansion considering the overall impact to the surrounding area.