Province Awards Contract for Waterville Airport Study

The province has awarded the contract to study the possible relocation of the Waterville Municipal Airport in Kings County to CBCL Ltd.

The study will cost about $82,000 and will be completed by Oct. 31.

"The study will explore the impacts, benefits and costs associated with relocation of the Waterville Municipal Airport," said John MacDonell, Minister of Service Nova Scotia and Municipal Relations. "We support Kings County for looking at ways to diversify the economy and encourage retention and expansion of existing businesses."

The study will include meeting with airport stakeholders, reviewing land uses and zoning in the surrounding area, as well as identification, selection and cost estimates for three alternatives sites.

CBCL Ltd. will recommend a preferred site for the municipal airport and provide a business case that includes economic impacts and benefits and relocation costs.

"We are pleased to be a part of this exciting initiative and we look forward to working with all partners involved for the benefit of the entire community," said Diana Brothers, Warden of the Municipality of the County of Kings.

The project is being led by a steering committee co-chaired by staff representatives with the Province and the Municipality of the County of Kings.

The study was proposed to explore potential expansion at the Michelin Tire Plant. Michelin employs about 3,500 people in Nova Scotia, including 1,200 at the Waterville plant.