Agenda

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AIRPORTS COMMITTEE

Meeting Date:	02/12/2020
Subject: Discuss the Airport Innovation and Business Attraction Program, Buchanan Field and Byron Airport
Submitted For:	Keith Freitas
Department:	Airports
Referral No.:
Referral Name:
Presenter:		Contact:	Beth Lee (925) 681-4200

Information

Referral History:

Discuss the Airport Innovation and Business Attraction Program, Buchanan Field and Byron Airport

On January 16, 2018, the Board of Supervisors (Board) ratified the execution of a Letter of Intent between the County and the California department of Technology to partner in participating in the FAA sponsored UAS Integration Pilot Program (IPP). District III, District IV, and Public Works Department – Airports staff continue to explore business opportunities with UAS companies. On October 8, 2018, 3DR conducted UAS pavement inspection testing at the Byron Airport. The test was successful and 3DR has requested that the County consider additional testing opportunities at Byron and Buchanan Field.

Referral Update:

The partnership efforts has resulted in two UAS companies locating their businesses at the Buchanan Field Airport. To further this effort and to proactively position Buchanan Field and Byron Airport to attract aviation innovation and technology businesses (both established and emerging), Airports staff is convening a working group to help us develop a strategy/plan. Staff met with the working group comprised of people who are knowledgeable and/or involved in the industry (UAS and autonomous vehicles/aircraft), financing, real estate development, and economic development. The group brainstormed ways to best attract aviation innovation and technology businesses to the airports. Staff continues to create the program structure which includes creating a program identity, collateral materials, and similar to move project forward. Two aviation innovation companies are now located at Buchanan Field Airport and two others are currently pursuing opportunities at the Byron Airport.

Recommendation(s)/Next Step(s):

Discuss the Airport Innovation and Business Attraction Program, Buchanan Field and Byron Airport. Continue to work with various UAS entities to explore business and partnership opportunities.

Fiscal Impact (if any):

The fiscal impact has generally been limited to the Airport Enterprise Fund and associated with staff time.

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