June 26 Airlake Airport Advisory Meeting

The Airlake Airport Advisory Committee meeting on June 26, 2025, provided valuable insights into both the technical aspects of aircraft noise management and the very real challenges facing airport communities.

From educational presentations to heated discussions about infrastructure delays, this meeting highlighted the complex balance between aviation operations and community needs.

1 - Major Road Project Delayed Again

The Big News: The long-awaited paving of 225th Street (the half-mile road from Cedar Avenue to the airport's south entrance) has been cancelled for 2025 and pushed back to 2027.

Why This Matters: This dirt road serves as the main access to the airport's south side, including the new Loft Aviation building and other businesses.

The road is currently described as a "slap pit" during wet weather, making it difficult for businesses to operate and potentially limiting economic development.

The Reason: The Metropolitan Airports Commission (MAC) decided to combine the road project with the runway reconstruction and extension project, which is now targeted for 2027.

This decision was made partly because the road would need to be demolished and relocated as part of the larger runway project.

The Frustration: Local business owners expressed significant frustration, noting they've been promised this road improvement since 2020.

The delays have real impacts on businesses trying to serve customers who must navigate the unpaved road.

2 - Airport Radio Frequency Change Coming

What's Changing: The airport's radio frequency will likely change from its current frequency to 123.05 in October 2025 (specifically October 2nd if approved).

Why: The current frequency is overcrowded, creating safety concerns for pilots. The new frequency will be shared with Red Wing Airport instead of New Richmond Airport, which should reduce congestion.

How You'll Know: The change will be communicated through newsletters, pilot notices, signage, and automated weather broadcasts.

3 - Lions Club Flying Breakfast: A Community Success Story

The Event: The Lakeville Lions Club's annual Flying Breakfast kicks off the first weekend of Pan-o-prog and has grown dramatically over 13 years.

Impressive Numbers:

• Expected to serve 2,600 meals this year

• 3,600 unique visitors anticipated

• 70-100 aircraft operations during the event

• 200 volunteers contributing 1,200 hours

• The event helps the Lions Club donate back to the community - they gave over $366,000 last year

Community Impact: The breakfast not only raises funds for Lions Club charitable work but also introduces many families to aviation and showcases what the airport offers to the community.

4 - Ongoing Runway Project Challenges

The Status: The major runway reconstruction and extension project remains in limbo, waiting for FAA approval to begin the environmental assessment process.

The Roadblock: Negotiations with pipeline companies have been the primary delay, though recent discussions have been described as "positive."

The Timeline: If the FAA approves the environmental assessment to begin, it would take 12 months to complete, targeting a 2027 start date for actual construction.

What This Means: The entire airport development timeline depends on federal approval processes that are largely outside local control.

Airport Infrastructure Improvements

Good News: The airport maintenance shop renovation is nearly complete (first week of July), providing employees with better working conditions and proper facilities for winter storm operations.

Upcoming: The traditional October barbecue may move to August or September this year.

The next Airport Advisory Committee meeting is scheduled for September 11, 2025. Residents are welcome to attend and provide public comment during the designated time.