City Receives EDA Grant for New Aviation Facility

The U.S. Department of Commerce announced today that the Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) is awarding a $1 million grant from the Public Works Economic Adjustment Assistance Program to the City of Sioux City. The grant will assist with the construction of a new $7 million aviation facility on City-owned land at Sioux Gateway Airport/Brigadier General Bud Day Field.

The project will include the construction of a new 39,400 square foot aviation center with a flight school, two hangar bays and two stories of office space, and is expected to create 42 new skilled jobs. The aviation center will partner with area schools and colleges to provide education and training opportunities, including a fully accredited flight school.

The City will construct and own the facility and is currently in negotiations with a tenant to bring forward a proposal for a long-term lease agreement in the next 30 days.

The new aviation center is expected to provide a significant increase in the number of airport operations, add needed hangar space, support the 185th ANG, and help broaden the employment base. The collaboration of industry and education will increase skill levels and provide a solid foundation for Sioux City’s growth in the aviation industry.

“This is an exciting project for Sioux City as we anticipate an increase in aircraft activity with the new flight school at Sioux Gateway Airport,” said Mayor Bob Scott. 

Construction of the new aviation facility is anticipated to begin this year.