Embry Riddle’s Gathering Support for New Private Training Strip Near Prescott

Public support seems to be gaining for Embry Riddle’s proposed private training airstrip near its sprawling campus at Prescott, Arizona. The university wants to build a 6,000-foot runway in the Chino Valley on the privately-owned Perkins Ranch. The proposal first came to light about six months ago and prompted fears of noise and lead pollution but the Perkins family and Embry Riddle claim the isolated site will actually reduce noise exposure and greatly ease congestion at Prescott Airport, where Embry Riddle is based. The Perkins held a public information day at the ranch on Sunday to explain the four-stage plan to develop and use the airstrip. The proposal has gone through various municipal regulation processes and the local council is about to vote on a final land use decision that will allow the project to proceed.

Proponents have also stressed the airstrip will not be a full-service airport and will cater to about 18 training aircraft, Cessna 172s and Diamond DA42s, every day. It will be used primarily for touch and goes and that will generate 40 operations per hour. It’s proposed for a vacant 390-acre parcel eight miles from Prescott and at least four miles from the nearest homes according to proponents. They also cite economic diversity and tax revenue from a non-residential source as benefits of the project. The university says it will allow continued expansion of its programs without clogging the existing airport any more. The Perkins family says the lease revenue from the university will help keep the ranch financially viable.

Opponents say the project threatens the rural nature of the area southeast of Prescott where two-acre residential lots are the norm. They’re also concerned about noise. “Chino Valley residents have long traded ‘city convenience’ for the rare gift of silence. The proposed … runway brings a permanent change to our environment.” says materials prepared by the opposition group Keep Chino Rural. They’re also concerened about added stress to local water resources. They’re also concerned the airfield will begin industrialization of the area.

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