Collins Field commissioned a significant improvement to the facilities last Thursday with the ribbon cutting on a new $1.2 million aircraft parking apron.

The addition is just the latest improvement targeted for future growth at the Wood County Airport. As airport manager John Wisdom remarked, “This field is a home base for job creators, and this expansion will ensure we are ready for the growth which we know is coming.” 

Representatives from the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) Aviation and North East Texas Regional Mobility Authority (NetRMA), joined Judge Kevin White and other local civic leaders in celebrating the event.  

TxDOT funded about 90% of the project. The remaining 10% was sourced evenly among the cities of Mineola, Quitman and the Meredith Foundation. A grant from the Wood County Economic Development Commission began the initial fund-raising.   

“This apron more than doubles the aircraft spots we presently have,” commented Wisdom. “It also opened access to our fuel dock and allows for large-bodied aircraft a place to service passengers directly in front of the terminal.” 

Wisdom described some of the engineering which went into the apron. Following studies on environmental impact and drainage, the area was worked to the proper slope. Eighteen-inches of compacted Portland concrete formed the base of the apron. Six inches of asphalt then topped the area. 

While the apron would allow for up to 37 additional aircraft spots, decision makers at Collins Field opted to paint markings for only 14 new spots. This decision kept the approach-way to the terminal and the increased access to the fuel docks clear. 

As a part of the festivities, NetRMA presented the airport with a check for $125,000. As described by NetRMA board member, John Cloutier, this was the first finalized aviation project accomplished under NetRMA oversight. NetRMA Executive Director Glenn H. Green and Chairman Gary Halbrooks attended. 

Collins Field is one of 43 airports in the state managed by TxDOT Planner Davis Kirkpatrick. His presence at the event also spoke to the importance of the project in the eyes of state transportation planners.

After publicly thanking the many groups and individuals who saw this project through to successful completion, Wisdom took time to describe the next improvements in planning at Collins Field. “We are determining to expand the runway from 4,000 to 5,000 feet…it is necessary to meet insurance stipulations for jet aircraft traffic.”

Additionally, Wisdom pointed out the areas which will soon be developed for new hangars.