Spectra Jet, Inc., which specializes in repairing both Lear and Challenger jets, is hoping to expand in the future. But owner Mike Catherwood says progress is being halted because the city won’t build a new ramp.
The $3.3 million expansion would add between 13 and 20 jobs, he said. The company currently has about 20 employees.
“Why should I put in a ramp? That’s part of the airport,” Catherwood said. “They say they’re broke. I believe them.”
The city and the state put together an incentive package for Spectra Jet earlier this year, said Tom Franzen, assistant city manager and director of economic development. However, it never came to fruition.
Without the jobs being tied to the project, the state funding wasn’t available, Franzen said.
The ramp will benefit Spectra Jet, Franzen said, and not the entire airport. Once the ramp is built, the city must maintain it as part of the airport.
“Our discussions have been that we feel like it’s their responsibility,” Franzen said.
The discussions began about a year ago, Catherwood said. If the city won’t pay for the ramp, it’s possible Spectra Jet could pay for it in the future.
The company is staying in Springfield and has a great relationship with the city leaders, Catherwood said.
“There’s no animosity, it’s just tough,” Catherwood said.
Franzen reiterated the city has a strong relationship with Spectra Jet.
“It’s ultimately going to be a timing issue,” Franzen said.
Last week, city commissioners approved an agreement with Ali-Gator Air, which also has a hangar at the airport, for an addition to its current facility, as well as expanding the current ramp to its site. The cost of the project is approximately $240,000, according to public documents, which the company will pay.
The city of Springfield will also close its air traffic control tower by the end of the year to save money. The city has spent about $1.3 million operating the tower since the Ohio Air National Guard F-16 training mission ended in 2011, hoping to land another military flying mission at the airport. However, a study finished earlier this month showed economic development at the airport won’t be affected by closing the tower.
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