A long-running effort to allow civilian transport jets to remain overnight at Dover Air Force Base and otherwise increase civilian use of the base’s infrastructure may be on its way to becoming a reality.
The State of Delaware is seeking turnkey proposals for the Air Cargo Ramp expansion project that has the potential to bring jobs to central Delaware. Currently jets unloading cargo at the base have to return to another airport when work is completed, an expensive proposition for jumbo aircraft.
A civilian air terminal operates at the base, but faces a number of restrictions that come with being in the shadow of a major transport hub for the Air Force.
The project has long been discussed but faced financing challenges and years of the base being on a war footing. The Air Force has been encouraged to seek options that would bring in revenue to its bases while not interfering with operations. Employment at the base could decline in coming years if budget cuts hit the military. The base was affected last year by the budget stalemate that led to some reductions.
“Bringing business and revenue to the state requires a strong transportation infrastructure. This project will enhance one of our greatest assets, Dover Air Force Base, by giving it the ability to handle large air freighters,” Gov. Jack Markell said. “We applaud our state and local officials for coming together to bring this vital project to the bidding stage.”
The project will accommodate parking for large civilian air cargo carriers that serve the base; the parking needs of the occasional civilian charter aircraft; and aircraft for NASCAR for two race weekends (eight total days) annually. The project would ideally provide parking space for up to four fully loaded Boeing 747 or equivalent size cargo aircraft simultaneously.
The state’s goal is to enter into a long-term lease/development agreement with an organization or group of organizations with the capability of designing, constructing, financing, operating and maintaining the expanded facility at no cost.
The RFP was issued through the Delaware Economic Development Office (DEDO), in cooperation with the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT), Kent County Levy Court (Kent County) and Dover Air Force Base (DAFB). Details on the RFP can be found by clicking on the following link: http://de.gov/4z1.
The expanded facility would have additional capabilities when it is not being fully utilized for Air Force operations. Using the base’s runway and navigation systems, the facility could potentially be used for other aviation related activities such as an aircraft maintenance facility, cargo facility or other uses compatible with Dover AFB operations.
Aviation jobs have been on the increase in the state, with employers seeking skilled workers that can refit aircraft and maintain mechanical systems.
“Aviation is a growing sector in Delaware, with several companies expanding and looking to bring in more business. This goal will be assisted through the upgrading of the Air Cargo Ramp, which will in turn create more jobs that pay well,” said Alan Levin, Director of the Delaware Economic Development Office. “Dover Air Force Base continues to be one of the most important economic engines for Delaware, and this project will make it stronger.”
