RMMA/Jefferson County Airport Timeline
Now-2025: RMMA to be a Reliever airport, and not a Nonprimary Commercial Service airport :
| npias-2021-2025-appendix-a.pdf |
December 12, 2001 | Jeffco starts noise panel: Area resident says group is a delay tactic.
2000 | New Master Plan Developed
February 17, 1999 | Law may help officials opposed to airport plan
A bill sponsored by US Sen Wayne Allard and Congressman Joel Hefley became federal law in 1996. It allows general aviation airports, those primarily catering to single aircraft, to refuse flights carrying more than nine passengers without losing federal funds. That number of passengers is down form 30 included in the previous law.
The FAA has not written rules to enforce the law. Furthermore, the FAA has continued to mandate general aviation airports to accept planes carrying up to 30 passengers or lose federal funds.
“I don’t think the FAA would have denied them funding in violations of the law, “ Louisville Mayor Tom Davidson said. “And if they did, there certainly could be an action in federal court.”
“It’s really hard to fight the federal government and win because the FAA is charged with keeping the flying public safe,” Polly Page, Arapahoe County Commissioner. “And so whatever they do or say, they can always charge it back to safety.”
The FAA has not written rules to enforce the law. Furthermore, the FAA has continued to mandate general aviation airports to accept planes carrying up to 30 passengers or lose federal funds.
“I don’t think the FAA would have denied them funding in violations of the law, “ Louisville Mayor Tom Davidson said. “And if they did, there certainly could be an action in federal court.”
“It’s really hard to fight the federal government and win because the FAA is charged with keeping the flying public safe,” Polly Page, Arapahoe County Commissioner. “And so whatever they do or say, they can always charge it back to safety.”
| law_may_help_officials_opposed_to_airport_plan_2-17-99.pdf |
February 3, 1999 | Superior joins airport clamor
“The Jefferson County Commissioners acted quickly Tuesday to save federal dollars by lifting the ban on commercial service application processing, but the City of Louisville is acting to try to change the commissioners’ minds.
(Louisville city administrator Heather Balser) Balser was one of four individuals who attended the commissioners meeting to speak to the issue. She did not receive a notice of the meeting as she normally would. If she had not read about the vote in a Denver newspaper an hour before, she would not have attended. “I was surprised not to receive a notice,” Balser said. “Usually for an item such as this, 30 to 40 to 50 individuals would attend.”
“Commercial service was not perceived to be in the natural growth cycle of the airport,” Price said
“The Jefferson County public information office confirmed that neither Westminster nor Louisville were sent updated notices of the meeting and the vote.”
(Louisville city administrator Heather Balser) Balser was one of four individuals who attended the commissioners meeting to speak to the issue. She did not receive a notice of the meeting as she normally would. If she had not read about the vote in a Denver newspaper an hour before, she would not have attended. “I was surprised not to receive a notice,” Balser said. “Usually for an item such as this, 30 to 40 to 50 individuals would attend.”
“Commercial service was not perceived to be in the natural growth cycle of the airport,” Price said
“The Jefferson County public information office confirmed that neither Westminster nor Louisville were sent updated notices of the meeting and the vote.”
| superior_joins_airport_clamor_2-3-99.pdf |
January 9, 1999 | City upset over JeffCo Airport plans: Mayor Tom Davidson threatens lawsuits if Louisville citizens affected by lifting of commercial ban
"The moratorium has been in place for a number of years and then all of a sudden, with little notice, it was rescinded," said assistant to the Louisville city administrator Heather Balser.
Balser was one of four individuals who attended the commissioner’s meeting to speak to the issue. She did not receive notice of the meeting as she normally would. If she had not read about the vote in a Denver newspaper an hour before, she would not have attended. “I was surprised not to receive notice, ”Balser said. “Usually for an item such as this, 30 to 40 to 50 individuals would attend."
At the Louisville City Council meeting that evening Louisville Mayor Tom Davidson directed the city attorney to draft a “firm ,but reasonable letter to the commissioners stating that should any of its citizens be harmed by the commissioners’ decision, the city would seek damages in a class action suit on behalf of the people of Louisville."
In an interview the next day, Davidson said, "The commissioners need to understand the entire picture if they are concerned about money, these citizen lawsuits brought by communities have amounted to hundreds of millions of dollars.
"Nearly everybody in Louisville is in the flight pattern for the airport, he said."
Balser was one of four individuals who attended the commissioner’s meeting to speak to the issue. She did not receive notice of the meeting as she normally would. If she had not read about the vote in a Denver newspaper an hour before, she would not have attended. “I was surprised not to receive notice, ”Balser said. “Usually for an item such as this, 30 to 40 to 50 individuals would attend."
At the Louisville City Council meeting that evening Louisville Mayor Tom Davidson directed the city attorney to draft a “firm ,but reasonable letter to the commissioners stating that should any of its citizens be harmed by the commissioners’ decision, the city would seek damages in a class action suit on behalf of the people of Louisville."
In an interview the next day, Davidson said, "The commissioners need to understand the entire picture if they are concerned about money, these citizen lawsuits brought by communities have amounted to hundreds of millions of dollars.
"Nearly everybody in Louisville is in the flight pattern for the airport, he said."
| city_upset_over_jeffco_airport_plans_mayor_tom_davidson_threatens_lawsuits_if_louisville_citizens_affected_by_lifting_of_commercial_ban_1-9-99.pdf |
November 8, 1998 | Jeffco passed a resolution for David Gordon’s resignation as Airport Manager and the Jeffco Airport Authority was dissolved and the assets transferred to Jefferson County and County Commissioners took over.
November 8, 1998, by resolution the Board of County Commissioners of Jefferson County terminated the Jefferson County Airport Authority and transferred the assets and operations of the Jefferson County Airport back to the County of Jefferson, State of Colorado as permitted by statute.
November 3, 1998 | Broomfield passes an amendment to make it its own County, starting a 3 year transition until 2001 when it was completed and became its own County.
1998 | Development of 2000 Master Plan
sound contours some in 2000 Master Plan which show part of Rock Creek in 65 DNL (FAA should pay for insulation). Also show big portion of Rock Creek at 60 DNL which ciliates the easements.
1995-1997 | Rock Creek South Arguments
Gordon does letter writing campaign to say Rock Creek South shouldn’t have been built but Superior counters his argument.
November 7, 1995 | City of Louisville Question 2A
SHALL THE CITY OF LOUISVILLE OPPOSE SCHEDULED COMMERCIAL AIR PASSENGER SERVICE AT THE JEFFERSON COUNTY AIRPORT?
Background: Last year a private company proposed scheduled passenger service at the Jefferson County Airport (the "Airport"). The Louisville City Council voted to oppose such flights and later joined with Superior and Westminster in sharing the cost of legal action to bar scheduled air travel service at the Airport.
Background: Last year a private company proposed scheduled passenger service at the Jefferson County Airport (the "Airport"). The Louisville City Council voted to oppose such flights and later joined with Superior and Westminster in sharing the cost of legal action to bar scheduled air travel service at the Airport.
|
Those in FAVOR say:
-- Scheduled commercial passenger service will bring increased noise, congestion, and environmental hazards. Property values will decline. The disturbance will adversely affect people in the area as well as the wildlife found in nearby open space. -- The Airport's Master Plan, dated January 1988, establishes an assumption that no air carrier service is contemplated in the planning period which extends to the year 2007. -- The Airport Authority has signed Avigation Easement Agreements with the owners of Rock Creek Ranch and other parcels. The Rock Creek Easement Agreement terminates if aircraft size or passenger usage increases over the amount described in the Master Plan or if the airport noise exceeds certain limits. -- An Arapahoe County judge ruled that Centennial Airport could prohibit or limit air carrier service. FAA regulations state that such action may be taken if "necessary for the safe operation of the airport or necessary to serve the civil aviation needs of the public." Jeffco and Centennial airports are governed by the same rules. -- DRCOG'S Regional Aviation System Plan designates DIA as the region's air carrier airport through the year 2010. Jefferson County Airport is identified as a general aviation reliever airport. In the draft update of the plan, these roles remain the same through 2020. |
Those OPPOSED say:
-- Louisville has no right to interfere in the operation of an airport in another county. Louisville is outside the Airport Influence Area. -- The Airport Authority states that it will not seek the required certification or upgrade the facilities to accomodate planes with more than 30 seats. Presence of a scheduled passenger carrier will not open the door to frequent flights of larger aircraft. -- The Airport has received federal money, and the federal grant assurances apply. In this Federal Aviation Administration regulation, the Airport specifically agrees to be available "for public use on fair and reasonable terms and without unjust discrimination, to all types,kinds and classes of aeronautical use." -- Travelers could benefit by convenient and lower-cost service to destinations such as Grand Junction or Steamboat. -- The economy of the area would improve with increased employment opportunities. -- Given the number of operations now at the Airport, there would be only marginal increases in noise and traffic due to scheduled flights of turboprop planes. -- The ballot measure doesn't specify what form the city's opposition might take, or put any dollar limit on expenditures. |
September 20, 1995 | Rock Creek Homes in Flight Path
"We believe your town should notsacrifice the welfare and safety of future residents, "the letter said. It said Federal Aviation Administration “statistics demonstrate that the greatest threat of an aircraft accident causing property damage and loss of life occurs immediately after an aircraft takes off. ”The letter also said aircraft in the critical zone are “in a configuration most conducive t oan uncontrolled flight situation leading to a crash” where “the pilot has no capability to guide aircraft away from structures and activity.”
| rock_creek_homes_in_flight_path_9-20-95.pdf |
September 20, 1995 | Plane Crash Rescue Help Sought
"Cherryvale Fire Protection District is seeking to formalize an agreement with the North Metro Fire Protection District to cover possible plane crashes in the area of Rock Creek in Superior."
"Cherryvale has been trying to get more of their volunteers trained in the “crash and fire ”operations as the need has become more pronounced."
"Cherryvale has been trying to get more of their volunteers trained in the “crash and fire ”operations as the need has become more pronounced."
| rock_creek_homes_in_flight_path_9-20-95.pdf |
August 10, 1995 | Letters to the editor
|
"Stick to the plan.
I think it's shocking that the Jefferson County Commissioners and the airport authority would totally turn their backs on the airport's master plan. It is the official document the public counts on. It does not even mention scheduled airline passenger service. How can they consider expanding the airport in the absence of comment on the master plan? The public needs to trust government officials. When citizens believe the master plan is the guide for the airport's use, how can government officials depart from it? If use of the airport should change, the master plan should reflect those changes with input from the public. Residents have the right to contribute to such master-plan changes before proposals for expansion are considered. Commissioners John Stone and Betty Miller need to view changes in the airport's use as Commissioner Gary Laura has -- as affecting the citizens they were elected to serve. Please listen to our issues and take us seriously. Thank you." |
"Fight Scheduled Flights.
Your readers should be alarmed by the expansion plans for Jefferson County Airport. If Betty Miller and John Stone don't join Gary Laura in a united front as our Jefferson County Commissioners opposing scheduled airline service, the quality of life enjoyed by residents will deteriorate. The streets built and maintained with our tax dollars will become even more congested if Texas businessman John Andrews is allowed to bring into Jeffco 20 flights daily with as many as 30 passengers each. That could pour 600 people making 1,200 trips in and out of the area every day. We all know how jammed our streets are already with just us -- local residents -- traveling to and from work and shopping. Imagine the traffic congestion getting worse at rush hour! Let DIA get up and running -- and profitable -- instead of diverting scheduled airline service to the county airport. Jeffco already is the fourth busiest airport in the state. Leave well enough alone. Call the county commissioners and urge them to protect our quality of life." |
| airport_turns_back_on_master_plan_letter_to_editor_-8-10-95.pdf |
March 25, 1995 | Airport says no to expanded service
"Jefferson County Airport officials held an informational meeting about possible scheduled passenger flights before a boisterous and sometimes hostile crowd Thursday night. Airport Manager Dave Gordon announced to the hundreds of area residents present that the Jefferson County Airport Authority Board had decided earlier that day not to pursue an FAA certificate 139, which would allow scheduled passenger flights of up to 50 people at the airport. “This means we’re not pursuing allowing aircraft of over 30 seats,” Gordon said."
| airport_says_no_to_expanded_service_3-25-95.pdf |
January 3rd, 1995 | Jeffco can’t detour noisy flights
""They had free choice in buying a house where they did, and if they didn't want airport noise, they should've moved somewhere else" he said. "I don't think people have a right to complain about something we've always done"".
| jeffco_can’t_detour_noisy_flights_1-3-95.pdf |
1994-1995 | Commercial Flights Attempted
attempt to add commercial flights (Centennial Express). Would have violated Rock Creek Ranch avigation easements he was still signing say can’t do commercial or would terminate. Shot down by citizen pushback and 1995 ballot initiative including Westminster, Superior.
1993 | Airport Terminal Completed
1990-1996 | Rock Creek Avigation Easement Filings
1990-96 David Gordon signs off on over 20 Rock Creek Ranch avigation easement filings all with the same 5 limitation clauses.
1988 | Master Plan
Includes lengthening runway.
September 24, 1987 | Airport update reflects aviation slowdown
"The proposed runway was controversial for a variety of reasons. Although it was included in the airport's 1980 master plan, the 1987 update is "being done when general aviation is in a downturn", explained Gordon."
"But if it isn't included in the 1987 update, what has been lost is control over ensuring that land uses near the airport -- and the proposed new runway -- are compatible."
"Incompatible land use is one of the worst things that can happen to an airport and to the people living around us. It's a two-way street. We have to live together because we have an impact on each other."
"There are also actions the airport can take to minimize impact. One is what it did when Lac Amora was developed in northern Broomfield. It is in the departure path of the cross-wind runway. That runway is used only when winds are 10 miles per hour or greater in an effort to limit traffic going north."
""I see us needing to grow -- the environment around us is conducive to it", said Gordon. The governmental entities have been cooperative, he added."
"But if it isn't included in the 1987 update, what has been lost is control over ensuring that land uses near the airport -- and the proposed new runway -- are compatible."
"Incompatible land use is one of the worst things that can happen to an airport and to the people living around us. It's a two-way street. We have to live together because we have an impact on each other."
"There are also actions the airport can take to minimize impact. One is what it did when Lac Amora was developed in northern Broomfield. It is in the departure path of the cross-wind runway. That runway is used only when winds are 10 miles per hour or greater in an effort to limit traffic going north."
""I see us needing to grow -- the environment around us is conducive to it", said Gordon. The governmental entities have been cooperative, he added."
| airport_update_reflects_aviation_slowdown_9-24-87.pdf |
October 2, 1986 | Airspace dispute ends
“With little comment”, JeffCo BOE agreed to avigation easement for Standley Lake HS.
“Talks between the district and airport authority since have led to the authority’s modifying the easement so the district can insist on Federal Aviation Administration regulations being followed over the school, said board member Glen Keller.”
“The school district also received a letter from the FAA assuring the school district that the building of the school on that site would present “no substantial health hazard or hazard from noise and vibrations to students in the school.”
“Talks between the district and airport authority since have led to the authority’s modifying the easement so the district can insist on Federal Aviation Administration regulations being followed over the school, said board member Glen Keller.”
“The school district also received a letter from the FAA assuring the school district that the building of the school on that site would present “no substantial health hazard or hazard from noise and vibrations to students in the school.”
| airspace_dispute_ends_10-2-86.pdf |
August 16, 1984 | Jeffco Airport presents proposed expansion plans to Boulder County
"As now envisioned, the main runway will be extended about 1500 feet to the northwest which would put it in Boulder County"
""We planned on agricultural zoning (around the airport) and want to leave the land as free and open as possible" Tepe said. He suggested the airport authority buy adjacent lands or maintain open space through zoning."
"Gordon said that the expansion would have little impact on the City of Broomfield. It would not alter the types of aircraft it currently handles, nor would it alter the traffic pattern that aircraft using Jeffco follow. He also said that he did not anticipate an increase in air traffic initially or a significant change in the future. "I don't think the people that live off the airport will notice one bit of difference" he said."
""We planned on agricultural zoning (around the airport) and want to leave the land as free and open as possible" Tepe said. He suggested the airport authority buy adjacent lands or maintain open space through zoning."
"Gordon said that the expansion would have little impact on the City of Broomfield. It would not alter the types of aircraft it currently handles, nor would it alter the traffic pattern that aircraft using Jeffco follow. He also said that he did not anticipate an increase in air traffic initially or a significant change in the future. "I don't think the people that live off the airport will notice one bit of difference" he said."
| jeffco_airport_presents_proposed_expansion_plans_to_boulder_county_8-16-84.pdf |
August 8, 1984 | Three counties involved: Airport expansion plans raise growth questions
."Designated by the Federal Aviation Administration as a "general aviation" facility to handle small private and commercial air traffic, Jefferson County Airport is also intended to relieve some of the overflow from Stapleton International and Arapahoe County Airports".
According to Boulder County Land Use Director Ed Tepe, Jeffco officials will have to apply for an amendment to Boulder County’s Comprehensive Plan, which designates the proposed runway extension area for agricultural and open space purposes.”
“Fine, say some Boulder County officials – as long as that border stays open from other developments.”
JeffCo Airport needs about 800’ of southern buffer land in Boulder county for runway improvements.
According to Boulder County Land Use Director Ed Tepe, Jeffco officials will have to apply for an amendment to Boulder County’s Comprehensive Plan, which designates the proposed runway extension area for agricultural and open space purposes.”
“Fine, say some Boulder County officials – as long as that border stays open from other developments.”
JeffCo Airport needs about 800’ of southern buffer land in Boulder county for runway improvements.
| three_counties_involved_airport_expansion_plans_raise_growth_questions_8-8-84.pdf |
May 10, 1984 | Jeffco Airport gets grant
· US Senator Bill Armstrong announced the FAA will grant $751,749 to JeffCo Airport for an engineering design study for 1,500 to 2,000 foot extension of Runway 11L. The extension of the runway could intersect Colorado Hwy 128, requiring planners to reroute two miles of the highway.
· The funds will also pay for land acquisition of a clear zone between the runway and the highway as well as the engineering design for the relocation of the highway.
· The funds will also pay for land acquisition of a clear zone between the runway and the highway as well as the engineering design for the relocation of the highway.
| jeffco_airport_gets_grant_5-10-1984.pdf |
August 5, 1982 | 1959 Foresight begins successful Jeffco Airport
“The crosswind runway would be used more often, Gordon said, but according to an airport runway use agreement, pilots at Jeffco Airport do not use the crosswind runway until the wind speed is 10 mph. That windspeed occurs a small percent of the time, he said, so the agreement has lowered use of the crosswind runway from an approximated 6 percent of the time to about 3 percent. The agreement was made in an effort to limit air traffic over Broomfield, primarily the Lac Amora area, he added.”
“The airport also has a noise compatibility program to lower noise from aircraft flying over area cities. According to Gordon, the air traffic controllers tell pilots whenever possible to avoid flying over Broomfield. A flight booklet disseminated across the United States also advises pilots that Broomfield is a noise sensitive city and flight over the area should be avoided. As a final measure, signs in run-up areas of the runways read “Noise annoys—please avoid flight over Broomfield and other populated areas.”
“Five years ago I think we had a greater noise problem than we do now.”
“This airport has never been proposed to be used by commercial aurlines and air carriers” he added. “It will be all we can do to expand the airport to cover general aviation traffic.”
“The airport also has a noise compatibility program to lower noise from aircraft flying over area cities. According to Gordon, the air traffic controllers tell pilots whenever possible to avoid flying over Broomfield. A flight booklet disseminated across the United States also advises pilots that Broomfield is a noise sensitive city and flight over the area should be avoided. As a final measure, signs in run-up areas of the runways read “Noise annoys—please avoid flight over Broomfield and other populated areas.”
“Five years ago I think we had a greater noise problem than we do now.”
“This airport has never been proposed to be used by commercial aurlines and air carriers” he added. “It will be all we can do to expand the airport to cover general aviation traffic.”
| 1959_foresight_begins_successful_jeffco_airport_8-5-82.pdf |
September 13, 1979 | Jeffco OKs homes under flight path
FAA officials will recommend that no FHA or VA loans be issued to potential buyers
“Although no airplanes have crashed in the area earmarked for development, FAA officials object to persons living in the approach and departure zone because of excessive noise from airplanes flying overhead.”
“The 71 acre site, owned by Fred Jim Thompson. Was zoned residential 10 years ago, long before the county developed a land use plan for ground around the airport. But even at that time FAA officials objected to a residential development so close to the airport.”
“Last month the planning commission unanimously recommended denial of the plat because of the anticipated noise problem. In recommending denial the commission noted that FAA officials had testified that some flights can create noise measured at 90 decibels – far above the 55 decibel limit which constitutes a public nuisance.”
Developers agreed to use soundproofing features in construction and provide an air easement over the subdivision.
“Commissioner Hal Anderson said he voted for the development because the warning on the plat will make buyers aware of the noise problem. He said it was a question of letting “the buyer beware.”
“Although no airplanes have crashed in the area earmarked for development, FAA officials object to persons living in the approach and departure zone because of excessive noise from airplanes flying overhead.”
“The 71 acre site, owned by Fred Jim Thompson. Was zoned residential 10 years ago, long before the county developed a land use plan for ground around the airport. But even at that time FAA officials objected to a residential development so close to the airport.”
“Last month the planning commission unanimously recommended denial of the plat because of the anticipated noise problem. In recommending denial the commission noted that FAA officials had testified that some flights can create noise measured at 90 decibels – far above the 55 decibel limit which constitutes a public nuisance.”
Developers agreed to use soundproofing features in construction and provide an air easement over the subdivision.
“Commissioner Hal Anderson said he voted for the development because the warning on the plat will make buyers aware of the noise problem. He said it was a question of letting “the buyer beware.”
| jeffco_oks_homes_under_flight_path_9-13-79.pdf |
July 18, 1979 | Changes promised to cut noise at airport
i "Airport officials previously tried to solve the problem by asking that avigation easements be established over several undeveloped areas so that buyers would be aware at the time of purchase that there would be airplanes flying over their houses and accept it as a condition of purchase."
"The city never action on the proposal..... Medema Homes, developers of Lac Amora, one of the proposed overflight areas, did not favor the idea."
"The city never action on the proposal..... Medema Homes, developers of Lac Amora, one of the proposed overflight areas, did not favor the idea."
| changes_promised_to_cut_noise_at_airport_7-18-79.pdf |
June 13, 1979 | Environmental report recommends improving Jeffco airport
“Long-term effects include some losses of vegetation, degradation of noise and air quality as a results of additional aviation, an increase in surface run-off, improvements in aviation safety and stimulation of the private and public economics.”
“The report noted short term effects are acceptable since they are temporary in nature and enhance the long term productivity of the airport, while the long-term effects are outweighted by the positive impact of the improvements.”
“Although noise levels at the airport will rise as a result of more traffic, future federal regulations are expected to require reductions in the noise individual aircraft can make, according to the report.”
“Most of the airport property areas outside of the airport will be exposed to less than 65 DNL in noise which is not considered objectionable. By 1989 about 35 residents east of the airport could be exposed to between 65 to 75 DNL if the proposed federal regulations are not enforced. If the regulations are enforced, only airport property will be impacted by that noise level, the report concluded.”
“The plan recommends land acquisition and runway development to help control noise as well as provide for long-range airfield capacity.”
"The airport has experienced a steady increase in air traffic from 183,398 take-offs and landings in 1970 to 248,351 in 1978. The number of take-offs and landings is expected to climb to 331,000 by 1983 and 605,000 by 1998".
“The report noted short term effects are acceptable since they are temporary in nature and enhance the long term productivity of the airport, while the long-term effects are outweighted by the positive impact of the improvements.”
“Although noise levels at the airport will rise as a result of more traffic, future federal regulations are expected to require reductions in the noise individual aircraft can make, according to the report.”
“Most of the airport property areas outside of the airport will be exposed to less than 65 DNL in noise which is not considered objectionable. By 1989 about 35 residents east of the airport could be exposed to between 65 to 75 DNL if the proposed federal regulations are not enforced. If the regulations are enforced, only airport property will be impacted by that noise level, the report concluded.”
“The plan recommends land acquisition and runway development to help control noise as well as provide for long-range airfield capacity.”
"The airport has experienced a steady increase in air traffic from 183,398 take-offs and landings in 1970 to 248,351 in 1978. The number of take-offs and landings is expected to climb to 331,000 by 1983 and 605,000 by 1998".
| environmental_report_recommends_improving_jeffco_airport_6-13-79.pdf |
January 10, 1979 | JeffCo Airport wins area FAA environmental award
'The primary reasons for selecting Jeffco Airport as the 1978 recipient were:
1. The air port’s concern about aircraft noise and its effect on communities in the area, shown by its raising of flight pattern altitude and the distribution of pamphlets asking pilots to avoid noise-sensitive areas. 2. The institution of an airport master plan which has dealt extensively with land-use planning, including methods of determining how land surrounding the airport can be used in a compatible manner.
1. The air port’s concern about aircraft noise and its effect on communities in the area, shown by its raising of flight pattern altitude and the distribution of pamphlets asking pilots to avoid noise-sensitive areas. 2. The institution of an airport master plan which has dealt extensively with land-use planning, including methods of determining how land surrounding the airport can be used in a compatible manner.
| jeffco_airport_wins_area_faa_environmental_award_1-10-1979.pdf |
June 28, 1978 | Airplane noise causes council debate
· Council requested staff to prepare a draft water service agreement to allow the airport to continue using city water. JJ “Joe” Karius said between 200-500 planes fly over his house each day and the noise prevents him from enjoying his property.
· Councilwoman Thelma Banschbach to say the water agreement was the time for the city and the airport to get together to set minimum height limits and establish flight patterns. Banschbach added she didn’t feel the airport was enforcing the FAA’s standards.
· The airport will be “run out of town unless you show more responsibility for your actions.” She told Airport Manager David Gordon. Gordon called it a “low blow” to tie the water agreement into the airport complaints.
· Councilwoman Thelma Banschbach to say the water agreement was the time for the city and the airport to get together to set minimum height limits and establish flight patterns. Banschbach added she didn’t feel the airport was enforcing the FAA’s standards.
· The airport will be “run out of town unless you show more responsibility for your actions.” She told Airport Manager David Gordon. Gordon called it a “low blow” to tie the water agreement into the airport complaints.
| airplane_noise_causes_council_debate_6-28-78.pdf |
July 27, 1977 | Jeffco Airport Ban on plutonium flights lifted
"Under the terms of the resolution which reopened the airport to the flights, the plutonium must be sealed in certified containers and Rocky Flats personnel must be provided to supervise all flights.
"Gordon never said he didn't want Rocky Flats using the airport for radioactive flights, but maintained that he stopped the flights, pending the establishment of adequate safety procedures. Gordon said the allegations were totally false and that a threatened loss of federal funds was the motivating factor behind the airport authority's withdrawing its ban."
"Gordon never said he didn't want Rocky Flats using the airport for radioactive flights, but maintained that he stopped the flights, pending the establishment of adequate safety procedures. Gordon said the allegations were totally false and that a threatened loss of federal funds was the motivating factor behind the airport authority's withdrawing its ban."
| jeffco_airport_ban_on_plutonium_flights_lifted_7-27-77.pdf |
June 15, 1977 | Curbing noise problem will require cooperation
JEFFCO was established in May 1960, and was owned and operated by the Jefferson County Commissioners. Following the passage of a state law in 1965 empowering cities and counties to form airport authorities, JEFFCO was placed under the supervision of its own Airport Authority which governs the airport through a five-member board. The airports rules and regulations, established by the Airport Authority, are administered by the airport manager. The members of the Airport authority are all taxpaying residents of Jefferson County, several of them pilots.
- 20,000 flts/mo, "sometimes 1,200-1,400 flights a day on Saturdays or Sundays"
- Max weight on runway was 60,000 lbs so NO commercial flights allowed
- 1965 JEFFCO, was placed under the supervision of it's own it's own Airport Authority, which governs the airport through a five member board."
- Airport was 1,500 acres at that time with 800 acres farmed in wheat
- "A flight school"
- "Almost one half of the people who use the airport are amateurs learning to fly"
- "JEFFCO, which is funded largely by federal money from the FAA....."
- "...expecting to receive a $1mm grant which will fund .... 74 acres of land for a buffer zone on it's outer perimeter..."
| jeffco_article_star_courier_1977-6-15.pdf |
| lac_amora_broomfield_co_-_neighborhood_guide___trulia.pdf |
August 18, 1976 | Jeffco Airport Busy, Popular With Flyers
"Location of the Jeffco Airport has a great deal to do with the number of takeoffs and landings each year. "There are a lot of people in this area who either own their own private or business planes, "he explained, "and this airport is simply convenient to them."
"Our purpose," he continued, "is to operate this facility in a manner so as not to become a burden to the taxpayer. We’re self-supporting, and strive to provide good aviation facilities to the users and to the community." Grounds around the airport, some 1700 acres, are owned and controlled by the airport. These grounds are in turn leased to private corporations who provide the necessary services for aviation. Capacity of the airport is dictated by the weight of aircraft allowed to land. The largest planes allowed to touch down at the airport now weigh in at around 55,000pounds, according to Gordon.
"Our purpose," he continued, "is to operate this facility in a manner so as not to become a burden to the taxpayer. We’re self-supporting, and strive to provide good aviation facilities to the users and to the community." Grounds around the airport, some 1700 acres, are owned and controlled by the airport. These grounds are in turn leased to private corporations who provide the necessary services for aviation. Capacity of the airport is dictated by the weight of aircraft allowed to land. The largest planes allowed to touch down at the airport now weigh in at around 55,000pounds, according to Gordon.
- "Half Of Incorporated Land Remains Undeveloped" (Broomfield)
- Local Propellar Shop
- 300 Aero Tech Students (aviation mechanic school)
- Furmanite Sets Expansion Plan
- 1969 Lange USA purchased significant plot of land in Broomfield
- Hoffman Pilot Center (pilot training)
- Melody Homes (Sheridan Green - east of 36 at 108th) 1,000 homes available to be built
| jeffco_airport_busy_popular_with_flyers_1976-8-18.pdf |
July 15, 1971 | "Council Discusses Plane Problem"
"[Al] Harry summarized his comments by stating that the airport authority was trying to be a good neighbor but that ultimately the responsibility lay in the hands of the individual pilots and the FAA."
| council_discusses_plane_problem_7-15-71.pdf |
July 8, 1971 | Aircraft Noise Over Broomfield
"Private flying is great and I'm all for it -- but the noises caused by the great number of planes flying across Broomfield are loud enough to be very annoying and sometimes loud enough to completely destroy the relaxing and and recreational use of our own yards and patios for which we are paying a high rate of taxes.
When I considered buying a house in Broomfield six years ago, I inquired about the effect of the Jefferson County Airport on property in the city, and I was informed that only necessary flights would be over the city of Broomfield. Please write your feelings on this matter and send to me...with your help, this invasion of privacy and noise pollution over the property we own can be prevented. I intend to present your replies to the City Council and/or any other agency that can help."
When I considered buying a house in Broomfield six years ago, I inquired about the effect of the Jefferson County Airport on property in the city, and I was informed that only necessary flights would be over the city of Broomfield. Please write your feelings on this matter and send to me...with your help, this invasion of privacy and noise pollution over the property we own can be prevented. I intend to present your replies to the City Council and/or any other agency that can help."
| aircraft_noise_over_broomfield_-_open_forum_7-8-71.pdf |
July 12, 1962 | "The City of Broomfield existed long before the Jefferson County Airport "
"The City of Broomfield existed long before the Jefferson County Airport and any expansion plans for the airport are of vital concern to us since this would have a direct effect on the growth of the city. If the Jefferson County Airport is allowed to grow without consideration for the surrounding area, and the air traffic increases with larger planes using the airport facilities, a situation similar to that in the recent Griggs Case vs Allegheny County could evolve."
| open_forum_7-12-1962.pdf |
January 1, 1959 | Jeffco Airport Now Being Planned For a Location Near Broomfield
"A proposal for a similar airport installation at West Eightieth avenue and Wadsworth boulevard was dropped by the county this summer after residents and officials of Arvada and Westminster violently protested the location. At this time, a location further north of Arvada was suggested for the site."
"Committee co-chairman H. E. Johnson,Jr.,an investment broker, and Marcus Church, long-time Jefferson County rancher, have obtained options on more than 1,700 acres of high, flat farmland abutting Boulder County for a 922 acre airport and adjoining industrial sites."
"Airport planners and CCA officials have explained that the 7,000-foot airport runway would run north west-southeast, and that flight patterns would not be over Broomfield Heights, which lies to the northeast of the proposed project."
"Committee co-chairman H. E. Johnson,Jr.,an investment broker, and Marcus Church, long-time Jefferson County rancher, have obtained options on more than 1,700 acres of high, flat farmland abutting Boulder County for a 922 acre airport and adjoining industrial sites."
"Airport planners and CCA officials have explained that the 7,000-foot airport runway would run north west-southeast, and that flight patterns would not be over Broomfield Heights, which lies to the northeast of the proposed project."
| jeffco_airport_now_being_planned_for_a_location_near_broomfield_1959.pdf |
May 1, 1958 | Suits may be filed against Jeffco Airport
28 residents and real estate developers near the proposed sites of an airport in Jefferson county threatened the county with lawsuits if the project is approved. Both are between 80th and 88th, one extending from Wadsworth to Kipling and the other from Wadsworth east to Harlan Street. Esta Parr, who holds most of the water rights on the proposed sites, suggested the county build a field at about 112th Avenue and Sheridan. The commissioners said this was not feasible because of a high tension electric line across the middle. Parr said the Rna could be buried. Bishop Arthur White of the Pillar of Fire Church objected to the disturbing noise of aircraft flying near their school and the church’s Belleview College. Ha suggested that the church would instigate long drawn out court actions to protect their interests if it became necessary to do so. Residents and representatives Star Acres, Oberon Acres, Paradise Acres and Sierra Vista subdivisions in Jefferson county strongly objected to the whole thing. They said this is some of the best residential area in Jefferson county and already many high priced homes are built or under construction in that area.