The Cameron County Commissioner’s Court convened on July 22, 2025, to discuss significant developments regarding the local airport infrastructure. The meeting focused on plans for a new 6,000-foot runway and a parallel taxiway, aimed at enhancing operational safety and accommodating future aircraft operations, including emergency services.

The proposed runway, which will be expanded from its current width of 150 feet to 100 feet, is designed to meet the needs of various aircraft, including those used by FEMA during emergencies. The speaker referenced the Aransas County Airport, which successfully managed emergency operations with a shorter runway, emphasizing that the new runway would be more than adequate for current and future demands.

A key point of discussion was the ongoing planning process, which includes a final advisory committee meeting to outline recommendations and a capital improvement program. The estimated cost for the project is approximately $6 million, with the county responsible for only 5% of that total. The timeline for completion is projected for late 2025 or early 2026, pending FAA review, which may take longer due to existing backlogs.

Commissioners expressed their support for the project, with a motion to approve the plans passing unanimously. The meeting concluded with a commitment to keep the community informed as the project progresses, highlighting the importance of the airport in supporting both local and emergency operations.