DEL NORTE – The overlay project for the Kent Rominger Airport runway has been completed thanks to grant funding through the Colorado Department of Transportation Aeronautics Division. This project has been on the calendar for some time as materials and closure dates were figured out, but now that the project is done, pilots from around the world can enjoy a new runway while visiting. 

According to Airport Director Brian Burrell the new overlay added two inches on top of the original runway bringing its depth to about five inches and adding about 30 years of life to the runway. 

“This was a project that allows longevity of about 30 years to the runway that was built in 2010. We received the grant through the Colorado Department of Transportation Aeronautics Division that was a 90/10% grant. The funding for the grant came from jet fuel sales throughout the state which kept the expense out of the taxpayer’s pockets,” explained Burrell. 

In addition to the new pavement, the taxiway and ramp also received an overlay coat that added an additional 10 years of use which improves the conditions of the airport exponentially. 

“We were very fortunate to have this done and it will improve the overall experience and safety of the airport,” he said. 

The airport continues to grow and expand as more hangers are being purchased and built and air traffic continues to increase along with the sale of fuel. With the new fuel systems in place, flights that would have had to fuel in Pueblo or surrounding airports are now coming to Del Norte.  

The Astronaut Kent Rominger Airport (RCV) was distinguished as the “2020 Colorado Airport of the Year” by the Colorado Department of Transportation (CDOT) Division of Aeronautics and the Colorado Aeronautical Board. 

The Colorado Airport of the Year Award is presented annually by the Colorado Division of Aeronautics to recognize Colorado public-use airports that exhibit outstanding contributions to the Colorado Air & Space System. Airports distinguished with this recognition demonstrate values that fall in line with the CDOT Division of Aeronautics’ mission to advance a safe, efficient, and an effective statewide air and space system through collaboration, investment and advocacy. 

In 2010, the Division of Aeronautics supported one of the largest state/local-funded runway projects at Del Norte, which addressed the growing medical evacuation needs of Del Norte’s Rio Grande Hospital. The airport also recently completed the construction of a pilot shelter and camping facility, funded entirely by the airport and the Recreational Aviation Foundation. The volunteer leadership of the airport has helped make RCV one of the shining examples in Colorado of what a small rural general aviation airport can do to support its community and its residents and visitors. 

According to the 2020 Economic Impact Study of Colorado Airports, the Astronaut Kent Rominger Airport is responsible for supporting 31 jobs, producing over $1.36 million in annual payroll, while generating $5.38 million in overall business revenue. 

As the economy around Del Norte continues to grow, the airport will serve as both a launching pad and landing pad for medical transportation, wildland fire aircraft, private planes and more. For more information, visit www.riograndecounty.org/airport.