For 20 years, civic leaders in Blue Ash, Ohio, have coveted the undeveloped acres that surround Blue Ash Airport, operated by the city of Cincinnati. But did they take bulldozers to the runways in the middle of the night? No, instead they came to a compromise that allows the GA airport to stay open, while handing over some of that green space for the citizens of Blue Ash to enjoy. They’ll get 115 acres of parkland, with gardens, trails and an aviation museum. “Everybody gets something out of this deal,” Cincinnati Mayor Mark Mallory told the Cincinnati Enquirer. Blue Ash will pay $37.5 million to Cincinnati for the deal, which still needs to be confirmed by both sides. “Mayor Mallory and Blue Ash Mayor Robert Buckman have shown extraordinary foresight and leadership in crafting this solution,” AOPA President Phil Boyer said. Cincinnati will continue to operate Blue Ash Airport. It will improve the runway, reconfigure the taxiway and relocate the hangars and airport businesses.
Cincinnati Airport Saved From Meigs’ Fate
Key Takeaways:
- A compromise was reached between the cities of Blue Ash and Cincinnati regarding the Blue Ash Airport and its surrounding undeveloped land.
- Blue Ash will gain 115 acres for a new park, featuring gardens, trails, and an aviation museum, in exchange for paying Cincinnati $37.5 million.
- The Blue Ash Airport will remain operational under Cincinnati's management and will undergo significant improvements, including runway upgrades, taxiway reconfiguration, and relocation of hangars and businesses.
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