Everglades City
by Dennis Vasey
Collier County Commissioners met on March 11 to hear from Everglades area residents, aviation professionals, and pilots regarding the county’s agenda item to seek guidance on the potential deactivation of Everglades Airpark. While county staff initiated this process to determine the costs and obligations of closure, many believe it prioritizes administrative procedures over a full evaluation of the airpark’s long-term value.
Assessing the Airpark’s Management and Viability
Everglades Airpark, acquired by Collier County in 1968, has operated at an annual deficit. Unlike Marco Island Executive Airport and Immokalee Regional Airport, which generate positive net revenue, Everglades Airpark has struggled financially.
County staff recommended seeking guidance from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) on deactivation requirements. However, this approach relies heavily on financial data without addressing whether management improvements, increased investment, or operational adjustments could improve sustainability.
Photos by Patty Huff
Hurricanes and the Question of Infrastructure Resilience
The county has cited hurricane-related damage as a key factor in the airpark’s future. Hurricane Irma (2017) caused substantial damage, which was later repaired—only for Hurricane Ian (2022) to destroy much of those repairs. The county now estimates another $1.2 million in needed improvements.
Instead of exploring infrastructure resilience grants or structural reinforcements, the county’s agenda includes deactivation as an option. However, hurricane damage is an infrastructure challenge, not necessarily a reason to close an airport—especially in a hurricane-prone region.
Lack of Engagement Before the March 11 Meeting
Before the March 11 Board of County Commissioners meeting, one of the primary concerns was the lack of engagement with aviation stakeholders and Everglades City officials. The county planned to seek deactivation guidance from the FAA and FDOT before consulting pilots, business owners, or the local community.
At the initial hearing, concerns were raised about ongoing maintenance issues, including:
If these operational concerns had been addressed sooner, would the discussion about deactivation still be necessary? The fact that these issues persisted without resolution raises important questions about management oversight and problem-solving efforts.
Alternative Solutions Should Be Part of the Study
If the county proceeds with a study on the airpark’s future, it is essential that the following alternative solutions are explored alongside deactivation:
Ensuring these options are thoroughly considered in the study would provide a more balanced understanding of Everglades Airpark’s potential role in the community.
A Larger Pattern of Cost-Cutting?
The discussion surrounding Everglades Airpark fits into a broader trend of government cost-cutting—one where perceived financial burdens are targeted for reduction without fully assessing long-term community value.
Without public oversight, there is concern that deactivation could become a self-fulfilling prophecy, where past neglect is used to justify closure rather than looking at ways to improve the airpark’s financial health. If efficiency is the county’s true goal, then problem-solving—not elimination—should be the priority.
The Importance of a Transparent Process
The county has stated that its study is intended as a fact-finding effort. However, some residents worry that deactivation is already being positioned as the most likely outcome rather than one of several options.
Additionally, there is concern that the county is evaluating each airport separately rather than considering them as part of a unified aviation system. While the county consolidates the airport system’s overall budget, decisions about operational viability appear to be happening in isolation.
What’s Next?
Aviation professionals and community members are calling for a thorough and transparent study that includes input from local pilots, business owners, and Everglades City officials. The county has indicated a willingness to increase transparency in the process, and residents will be watching closely to ensure all potential solutions are given due consideration.
For now, the future of Everglades Airpark remains uncertain. However, one thing is clear: those who value the airpark must remain engaged to ensure their voices are heard before a final decision is made.
A mile of roadway takes you a mile—a mile of runway takes you anywhere.
Longtime pilot John Apte, who captured and donated aerial photos to support the Everglades Society for Historic Preservation, hopes county officials recognize the value of Everglades Airpark.
“I was under the impression that federal funds for airports would have to be paid off if the facility was closed, and I’m pretty sure it was sizable. Anyway, I would hope that they see the value in that unique airport. It’s the last gas stop for about 80 miles going to the Keys. Local fish companies delivered stone crabs daily to fly-in visitors—these guys spend a ton, not your average walk-in to grab a couple of pounds. I could go on and on. It will be a sad day if that airport closes. I really hope it stays.”
Everglades City Stands Behind Everglades Airpark
Mayor Howie Grimm confirms Everglades City’s commitment to keeping the Everglades Airpark open.
“We will do everything we can to keep the airpark open and make it a success. As a possible solution, I suggested adding rental hangars, following Marco Island’s example, where the investment proved profitable.”
