Dayton International Airport is set for a major transformation after securing a record-breaking $78.75 million in state funding. The Ohio Controlling Board approved this funding on July 21, 2025, marking the largest single investment in the airport’s history. This move is part of a wider state effort to boost economic growth and prepare sites for new business across Ohio.
The money comes from the All Ohio Future Fund, a $750 million program created in the 2024-2025 state budget. The fund’s main goal is to help cities and regions get large sites ready for new employers, especially in industries like aerospace, defense, logistics, and manufacturing. With this funding, Dayton International Airport will soon begin a series of major upgrades that will affect not only the airport but also the surrounding communities of Dayton, Union, and Butler Township.
What Will the Funding Cover?
The $78.75 million grant will pay for a wide range of improvements at Dayton International Airport. The total cost of the project is expected to reach about $96 million, with the state grant covering most of the expenses. Here’s how the money will be used:
- Apron Construction and Rehabilitation: About $72 million will go toward building new aprons and fixing existing ones. Aprons are the paved areas where planes park, load, and unload. These upgrades will create new spots for hangars, making it easier for companies to set up operations at the airport.
- New Taxiway: Nearly $9.9 million is set aside for building a new taxiway. Taxiways are the paths planes use to move between runways and aprons. A new taxiway will help planes move more smoothly and safely around the airport.
- Roadwork and Access Improvements: Around $14.3 million will be spent on improving roads and access points around the airport. Better roads will make it easier for workers, passengers, and cargo to get in and out of the airport quickly and safely.
These projects will cover more than 150 acres around the airport, touching parts of Dayton, Union, and Butler Township. Construction is expected to start in late 2025 or early 2026, with work happening in phases over the next several years. The exact timeline will be shared as contracts are awarded and permits are approved.
Why Is This Investment Important?
State and local leaders say this investment is about more than just fixing up an airport. They believe it will help bring new jobs and businesses to the region. Lydia Mihalik, Director of the Ohio Department of Development, explained that the upgrades will prepare the site for major aerospace and defense investments. She said, “We’re making sure Dayton International Airport is ready for the next wave of growth.”
Lt. Governor Jim Tressel added, “We’re literally laying the groundwork for future jobs and economic development in these communities. We’ve already generated interest in these locations, and by proactively preparing them with needed infrastructure, these sites won’t be vacant for long.”
State Senator Steve Huffman, who represents Tipp City, also shared his support. “Enhancing the surrounding area of Dayton International attracts not only airlines but other private companies looking to use the airport to fit their business needs. The opportunities this project brings for economic growth to the entire region are substantial,” he said.
Governor Mike DeWine has stressed the importance of having sites ready for new companies. He believes that when locations are prepared with the right infrastructure, it’s much easier to attract major corporations and create good-paying jobs for Ohioans.
How Will the Community Benefit?
The improvements at Dayton International Airport are expected to bring several benefits to the local community and the wider region:
- Job Creation: The construction work itself will create many jobs for builders, engineers, and other workers. Once the upgrades are finished, the airport will be able to attract new businesses, which will bring even more long-term jobs to the area.
- Economic Growth: By making the airport more attractive to companies in aerospace, defense, logistics, and manufacturing, the region could see a boost in economic activity. This means more money flowing into local businesses, schools, and public services.
- Better Infrastructure: Improved roads and airport facilities will make travel and shipping easier for everyone. This can help local companies grow and make the area more appealing to new employers.
- Faster Business Expansion: With new hangar sites and better access, the airport will be able to welcome new tenants and help existing companies expand more quickly. This makes Dayton International Airport more competitive when companies are deciding where to invest.
Who Are the Key Players?
Several groups are involved in making this project happen:
- Ohio Department of Development: This state agency, led by Director Lydia Mihalik, is in charge of overseeing the grant and making sure the project stays on track.
- Dayton International Airport Authorities: Local airport leaders will work with the state to carry out the construction and improvements.
- City of Dayton: The city government will help coordinate the work and make sure it fits with local needs.
- Major Employers: Companies like Sierra Nevada Corp., Joby Aviation, Amazon, and Crocs already have a presence at the airport. These upgrades could help them grow and attract even more businesses.
- Local Residents and Workers: People living and working near the airport will see the biggest changes, with new job opportunities and better infrastructure.
What Is the All Ohio Future Fund?
The All Ohio Future Fund was created in 2023-2024 as part of the state’s plan to attract big employers. The fund has $750 million to help cities and regions get large sites ready for new business. The Dayton International Airport project is one of four major awards given in July 2025, with other projects in Lorain, Coshocton, and Muskingum counties.
As of July 2025, the All Ohio Future Fund has invested nearly $350 million in 11 project sites across the state. The goal is to make Ohio more competitive when companies are looking for places to build factories, offices, or research centers.
What’s Next for Dayton International Airport?
With funding now approved, the next steps include:
- Engineering and Design: Experts will draw up detailed plans for the new aprons, taxiway, and roads.
- Permitting: The airport and city will work with local and state agencies to get the necessary permits for construction.
- Contracting: Construction companies will be hired to do the work.
- Public Updates: Officials will keep the community informed about progress and any changes to the timeline.
Construction is expected to begin in late 2025 or early 2026, with work happening in phases. Some parts of the project may finish sooner than others, depending on weather, supply chains, and other factors.
All Ohio Future Fund created
Ohio Controlling Board approved funding
Other projects awarded funding
Construction expected to start
Construction expected to start
Who Stands to Gain the Most?
The biggest winners are likely to be:
- Job Seekers: Construction jobs will open up first, followed by long-term positions as new companies move in.
- Local Businesses: More people working at and near the airport means more customers for shops, restaurants, and service providers.
- Students and Young Workers: New employers may offer internships, apprenticeships, and entry-level jobs, helping young people start their careers.
- Existing Employers: Companies already at the airport, like Sierra Nevada Corp. and Joby Aviation, will benefit from better facilities and more room to grow.
What Are the Possible Challenges?
While most people see the project as a positive step, there are some concerns:
- Construction Disruption: Building new aprons, taxiways, and roads can cause noise, dust, and traffic delays. Officials say they will work to limit these problems and keep residents informed.
- Long-Term Growth: Some residents worry that too much development could change the character of their neighborhoods. City and airport leaders say they will listen to community feedback and try to balance growth with quality of life.
- Environmental Impact: Large construction projects can affect local wildlife and water systems. Environmental reviews and permits are required to make sure the work is done responsibly.
What Does the Future Hold?
There is already strong interest from a “major end user with existing operations on the campus” who may expand with a new business line unique to the region. This could mean even more jobs and investment in the coming years. As more companies see the improvements at Dayton International Airport, the area could become a leading hub for aerospace and defense in the Midwest.
The All Ohio Future Fund will continue to support similar projects across the state, helping other communities get ready for new employers. With nearly $350 million already invested in 11 sites, Ohio is making a strong push to attract the jobs and industries of the future.
What Do Local Leaders and Residents Say?
Local officials are excited about the project’s potential. They believe it will drive economic growth and create jobs for years to come. The business community expects the improvements to make Dayton International Airport more competitive, helping attract high-value tenants and support existing employers.
Residents are hopeful about the benefits, including more jobs, better roads, and increased economic activity. Some have questions about how construction will affect their daily lives, but most agree that the long-term gains are worth it.
How Can People Stay Informed?
For the latest updates on the Dayton International Airport project, residents and businesses can visit the airport’s official website. The Ohio Department of Development also provides information about the All Ohio Future Fund and other state-supported projects at development.ohio.gov.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, these kinds of investments are key to making Ohio a top choice for new business and job growth. The Dayton International Airport project shows how state and local leaders can work together to prepare for the future.
Summary Table: Dayton Airport Enhancement Funding (2025)
| Item | Amount (USD) | Description |
|---|---|---|
| State Grant (All Ohio Future Fund) | $78,750,000 | Aprons, taxiways, roadwork, site prep |
| Total Project Cost | ~$96,000,000 | Includes local/other contributions |
| Area Served | 150+ acres | Dayton, Union, Butler Township |
| Key Stakeholders | State, City, Airport, Major Employers | |
| Project Start | Late 2025/Early 2026 (expected) | |
| Major End User Interest | Yes | Strategic expansion, new business line |
Action Steps for Community Members
- Job Seekers: Watch for job postings related to construction and, later, for positions with new employers at the airport.
- Local Businesses: Prepare for increased demand as more workers and companies come to the area.
- Residents: Attend public meetings and stay informed about construction schedules and community updates.
- Students: Look for internship and training opportunities with companies expanding at the airport.
Official Resources
For more details about the All Ohio Future Fund and other state-supported projects, visit the Ohio Department of Development’s official website.
Conclusion
The $78.75 million investment in Dayton International Airport marks a turning point for the region. With support from the All Ohio Future Fund, the airport will soon offer better facilities, more jobs, and new opportunities for businesses and workers alike. While there will be challenges along the way, the long-term benefits promise to make Dayton and its neighbors stronger, more competitive, and ready for the future. As construction begins and new companies arrive, the community can look forward to a period of growth and renewal that will shape the region for years to come.
Learn Today
Apron → Paved area at airports where aircraft park, load, and unload passengers and cargo.
Taxiway → Path connecting airport runways to aprons, used by planes for ground movement.
All Ohio Future Fund → State program with $750 million to prepare sites for new employers in Ohio.
Permit → Official approval required to legally begin and continue construction projects at the airport.
Infrastructure → Physical facilities like roads and buildings essential for airport operations and economic development.
This Article in a Nutshell
Dayton International Airport secured $78.75 million from Ohio’s All Ohio Future Fund to upgrade aprons, taxiways, and roads. Construction begins late 2025, creating jobs and attracting aerospace businesses to drive regional economic growth and infrastructure improvements across Dayton and surrounding townships.
— By VisaVerge.com
