Jackson County Airport completes major runway reconstruction
Jackson County Airport has completed a full reconstruction of its 5,900-foot runway, to ensure long-term safety and reliability for aviation users across Colorado’s North Park region, according to an Oct. 3 press release from the Colorado Department of Transportation.
The $5.7 million project enhances access for emergency services, including aerial firefighting and air ambulance operations, while supporting tourism and business travel.
The project was funded through a partnership between the Colorado Division of Aeronautics, the Department of Local Affairs and Jackson County, with $5.3 million provided in state grants. The runway project was a state and local collaboration and received no federal funding.
Officials emphasized the runway’s importance as a rural lifeline.
“The Walden-Jackson County Airport is an essential lifeline for our community, not only for business and tourism but also for emergency services like aerial firefighting and medical flights,” Colorado Aeronautical Board Chair Kent Holsinger said in the release. “We’re extremely grateful and proud of the new runway and the dividends are sure to last for decades.”
According to the 2025 Colorado Aviation Economic Impact Study, the airport contributes $184,000 in annual business revenues, supports four jobs, and generates $113,000 in value added to Colorado’s economy.
“I’m excited since this has been a several years in the making,” said Jackson County Administrator and Airport Manager Samantha Martin. “To see it come to completion is very satisfying. I’m really looking forward to the increased traffic it has already brought to our community, as well as the economic value and the added safety measures. When we have fire planes for wildfires, or emergency service plans, it’s nice they can land on safe runway. The former runway had gotten to the point it wasn’t safe. Knowing people can do their jobs safely is a very good thing.”
Martin also expressed gratitude to Colorado Division of Aeronautics and Department of Local Affairs who helped make the upgrades become a reality.
“Without those two entities seeing the value in this airport and this runway, this project would not have been possible,” she said. “They were game changers for us and we appreciate it.”
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A view of Jackson County Airport’s upgraded runway from above.
Jackson County Airport/Courtesy photo
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A view of Jackson County Airport’s upgraded runway from above.
Jackson County Airport/Courtesy photo
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Colorado Aeronautical Board Chair Kent Holsinger presents a check to $4.2 milliion check to Jackson County Commission Chair Coby Corkle.
Jackson County Airport/Courtesy photo
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Colorado Department of Local Affairs Executive Director Maria De Cambra present a $1 million check to Jackson County Commission Chair Coby Corkle.
Jackson County Airport/Courtesy photo
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