Oklahoma Banking on Watonga Regional Airport Runway Upgrades

The airport's new 4,000-foot runway is expected to bolster the state and local economies.

Grant Boyd

Monday, December 12, 2022 at 10:57 AM ET

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Three vintage high-wing aircraft on the ramp at Watonga Regional Airport. [Courtesy: Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission.]

Key Takeaways:

The Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission invested nearly $2.8 million in the Watonga Regional Airport, fully funded by FAA grants from ARPA, for a major rehabilitation project.
The project involved reconstructing the 4,000-foot runway to meet FAA standards, installing new LED lights, and conducting an obstruction survey to enable 24/7 all-weather access, addressing the runway's over 25 years of age and distress.
Officials anticipate this investment will significantly boost the local and state economy, enhancing the airport's $1.2 million annual economic impact and supporting critical local industries like agriculture and oil/gas operations.
Future plans for the airport include expanding for new hangars and updating the terminal building to continue its growth and service to the community.

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The Oklahoma Aeronautics Commission has recently invested a considerable amount of capital into the Watonga Regional Airport (KJWG).

According to the Commission, “This project consisted of reconstruction of the existing 4,000-foot by 60-foot runway in its current location to meet Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) standards. Also included in the project was the installation of new LED runway edge lights and an obstruction survey of the area to develop new instrument approach procedures that will ensure the airport has 24/7 access in all weather conditions. The total project cost was just under $2.8 million and was funded by grants entirely from the FAA due to ARPA [American Rescue Plan Act] funds provided by Congress.”