LEE COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION Southern Base of the Research Triangle Region NEWS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Friday, December 15, 2006 REPORT: ECONOMIC IMPACT OF SANFORD AIRPORT TOPS $280 MILLION PER YEAR SANFORD -- Sanford-Lee County Regional Airport generates more than $280 million in economic impact each year, according to a study released earlier this fall by the North Carolina Department of Transportation. The economic impact study was the first conducted since 1996 and calculated the impact at North Carolina's 74 publicly-owned airports, including both general aviation and commercial facilities. Lee County's airport generates an impact of $280.27 million per year. About 73 percent of that total is generated by what the researchers called "direct impact," economic activities that result from business conducted at the airport. The balance includes economic activity taking place elsewhere in the community that also can be attributed in some way to the airport. Figures statewide estimated that airports in North Carolina were responsible for 88,415 jobs and a total economic impact of $11.81 billion per year. Airport Authority chairman Buddy Keller, who leads the agency overseeing the local facility, already knew the airport makes a big impact on the community. Still, he was mildly surprised by the very large numbers. "Our airport had one of the largest impacts of any general aviation airport in the state," Keller said. "With Raleigh-Durham becoming more crowded and aviation becoming more important, that impact should continue to grow." Total economic activity wasn't the only figure released. According to the study, roughly 1,735 jobs and an estimated payroll of $76.25 million per year could be attributed to the Sanford-Lee County Regional Airport. Other numbers: The 87 aircraft based at the airport generate $22.65 million in property tax revenue for the county and 7,310 people visited the area because of the airport. In a study briefing, state officials emphasized that the length and strength of runways are a key to keeping airports competitive, as are technology and the ability to operate efficiently in all weather. Keller said forward thinking by local officials will help the local facility remain competitive. Its 6,500-by-100-foot runway is one of the largest in a facility of its kind, and ongoing investment has added the kind of configuration and equipment state officials believe is critical. That has reaped benefits for the entire community, according to Bob Heuts, who leads the economic development effort in Lee County. But, he says, it's an asset that must continually be improved. "Aviation is becoming more important every day, so maintaining a strong, competitive airport is essential for our county to prosper," said Heuts. "When businesses call about locating here, one of the first questions they ask is what kind of airport we have and what services it offers. "Having a first-class airport creates jobs and allows us to grow. I'm not sure many people realize how important the Sanford-Lee County Regional Airport is to our future." Since opening in October 2000, Sanford-Lee County Regional Airport (TTA) has emerged as one of the region's premier general aviation facilities and has been designated a reliever airport for Raleigh-Durham International. It is home to corporate aircraft, recreational aviators, an active flying club and several aviation-related businesses. The Lee County Economic Development Corp. is a nonprofit organization established to attract industry, enhance job opportunities and promote sound planning across Lee County. Funding is provided by the county, as well as the City of Sanford and Town of Broadway, the two county municipalities. -- 30 -- Media Contacts Bob Heuts, Director Jane Haber, Administrative Assistant 919.774.8439 (phone) 919.775.5410 (fax) info@lcedc.com Danny Swanson, Airport Manager 919.776.2939 (phone) 919.774.9627 (fax) info@sanford-leecoairport.com More on the Web LCEDC media: http://www.lcedc.com/media/ This release: http://www.lcedc.com/media/releases/nr121406.txt TTA Airport: http://www.sanford-leecoairport.com NCDOT Study: http://www.ncdot.org/transit/aviation/econstudy/default.html