Key Takeaways
• Ravalli County Airport apron expansion may begin fall 2025 to aid firefighting aircraft and local growth.
• Project funding includes $1 million Montana DOT and $86,250 FAA grants with phased construction planned.
• Expansion improves firefighting safety, airport capacity, and supports north Hamilton economic development.
Construction on the Ravalli County Airport Apron Expansion in Hamilton Could Begin This Fall
The Ravalli County Airport in Hamilton is on the verge of a major transformation that could start as early as fall 2025. This long-awaited apron expansion project aims to give firefighting aircraft more space during Montana’s intense fire seasons, while also boosting safety and economic growth for the local community. The project, which has been in the works for over 25 years, is now closer than ever to breaking ground thanks to recent progress in funding, planning, and coordination among key stakeholders.
What’s Happening at Ravalli County Airport?
The Ravalli County Airport, located in Hamilton, Montana, is preparing for a significant apron expansion. The apron is the paved area where aircraft park, load, unload, and refuel. This expansion is designed to help the airport handle more firefighting aircraft, especially during the busiest fire seasons when every minute counts.
Who is involved?
The project is led by the Ravalli County Airport Board, with strong support from county commissioners, the airport manager, and the U.S. Forest Service. Engineering firm Robert Peccia & Associates is handling the technical details, while several government agencies are providing funding.
When will construction start?
If all goes according to plan, construction could begin in fall 2025. However, if weather or funding issues cause delays, the project may be pushed to 2026.
Why is this expansion needed?
The main goal is to give firefighting aircraft enough room to operate safely and efficiently. The U.S. Forest Service has raised concerns about the current lack of space, which can make it harder to fight wildfires in the region. The expansion will also help the airport support more business activity and future growth.
Funding: How Is the Project Being Paid For?
The apron expansion at Ravalli County Airport is a big investment, with costs estimated at around $2.56 million to $3.1 million. To avoid putting too much strain on local taxpayers, the county is working with several funding sources:
- Montana Department of Transportation Grant: The county applied for a $1 million grant, which was reviewed in February 2025.
- Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Grant: An $86,250 grant from the FAA, with a 5% local match, is expected to be approved in July 2025.
- Previous Federal Funding: In 2020, the airport received FAA grants and CARES Act funds, which helped reduce the local share for earlier improvements.
By combining state and federal grants, the county hopes to cover most of the costs without needing a large local contribution. This approach has already worked well in the past, when federal funding allowed the airport to move forward with runway extensions and other upgrades.
Construction Timeline: What’s Next?
The process to expand the apron at Ravalli County Airport has reached several important milestones:
- Bid Opening: The county opened bids for the project on April 10, 2025. This step allows contractors to submit their proposals and pricing.
- Engineering Plans: Contract documents are available through Robert Peccia & Associates, the engineering firm overseeing the project.
- Expected Start Date: Construction is set to begin in fall 2025, as long as weather conditions allow.
- Possible Delays: If work cannot start before winter, the project will be postponed until 2026.
- Completion Goal: The county expects the expansion to be finished by 2026.
The project may be built in phases, depending on how much funding is available at each stage. According to project manager Rick Bowser, “If funds are available we’ll build the whole thing,” but even partial completion will help the U.S. Forest Service do its job more effectively.
Why the Apron Expansion Matters
1. Better Firefighting Support
The most urgent reason for the apron expansion is to help the U.S. Forest Service and other firefighting teams. During fire season, the airport becomes a hub for aircraft like Type I Helicopters (Chinook, Sky Crane) and Single Engine Air Tankers (SEATs). These planes and helicopters need space to park, refuel, and load up with water or fire retardant. Without enough room, firefighting efforts can be slowed down, putting people and property at risk.
The U.S. Forest Service has said that the current space is not enough to safely meet their needs. The new apron will give these crews the room they need to respond quickly and safely to wildfires in the Bitterroot Valley and beyond.
2. Improved Safety for All Aircraft
The expansion will also make the airport safer for everyone. Right now, firefighting aircraft and other planes sometimes have to operate close together, which can be dangerous. The new apron will separate these operations, reducing the risk of accidents and making it easier for pilots and ground crews to do their jobs.
3. Economic Growth and New Opportunities
The Ravalli County Airport is already one of the busiest general aviation airports in Montana. It serves as a gateway to the backcountry and supports tourism, recreation, and business in the region. By expanding the apron, the airport will be able to handle more planes, attract new businesses, and support future growth.
County officials see the project as a key part of their plan to develop the north side of Hamilton. More hangar space and better facilities could bring in new companies, create jobs, and boost the local economy.
4. Flexible, Phased Approach
Because funding can be unpredictable, the county is planning to build the project in phases if needed. This means they can start with the most urgent improvements—like space for firefighting aircraft—and add more features as money becomes available. The U.S. Forest Service has said that even a partial expansion would make a big difference in their ability to protect the community.
Historical Background: Decades in the Making
The Ravalli County Airport has a long history in Hamilton. Built in 1934, the original airport had a “T” shape with two runways, each a quarter mile long and 400 feet wide. Over the years, the airport has grown and changed to meet the needs of the community.
In 2020, the county made a big leap forward by accepting about $2 million in FAA grants. This funding allowed them to sign a $12 million contract with S&K Construction to extend the runway to 5,200 feet and move it farther north, away from nearby homes. These improvements made the airport safer and more useful for a wider range of aircraft.
The airport expansion has not always been smooth. In 2018, there was controversy over the possibility of using condemnation (taking private land for public use) to expand the airport. That plan was canceled, and the county has since focused on working with local landowners and finding other ways to move forward.
Key People and Organizations
Several important people and groups are working together to make the apron expansion a reality:
- Dan Huls: Ravalli County Commissioner and Airport Board member, helping guide the project.
- Jeff Burrows: Another county commissioner who has been involved since at least 2020.
- Thomas Burge: The airport manager, responsible for day-to-day operations.
- U.S. Forest Service: A major user of the airport, especially during fire season.
- Robert Peccia & Associates: The engineering firm designing and managing the project.
These stakeholders are working closely to make sure the project meets the needs of the community, supports firefighting efforts, and fits within the available budget.
The Airport’s Role in the Community
Ravalli County Airport (KHRF) is more than just a place for planes to land. It’s a vital part of the region’s transportation network, connecting Hamilton to the rest of Montana and beyond. The airport is especially important during fire season, when it serves as a base for firefighting aircraft protecting the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness and other nearby areas.
The airport is also a gateway for tourists, outdoor enthusiasts, and business travelers. Its location in the heart of Western Montana makes it a popular stop for people exploring the region’s mountains, rivers, and forests.
What Does This Mean for Local Residents and Businesses?
For Residents
- Better Fire Protection: The expanded apron will help firefighting crews respond faster and more safely to wildfires, protecting homes and property.
- Less Congestion: By giving aircraft more space, the project will reduce noise and traffic around the airport, making life easier for people who live nearby.
- Community Growth: Improved airport facilities can attract new businesses and jobs, helping the local economy thrive.
For Businesses
- More Opportunities: The expansion could bring in new aviation-related businesses, such as maintenance shops, flight schools, or charter services.
- Easier Access: With more space and better facilities, companies can move people and goods in and out of Hamilton more efficiently.
- Support for Economic Development: The project is part of a larger plan to develop the north side of Hamilton, creating new opportunities for growth.
For the U.S. Forest Service and Firefighting Teams
- Safer Operations: More space means less risk of accidents and easier coordination during busy fire seasons.
- Faster Response: Crews can get in and out of the airport more quickly, helping them fight fires more effectively.
- Room to Grow: The phased approach allows for future expansions as needs change.
How Does This Project Fit Into Broader Trends?
Airports across the United States 🇺🇸 are facing similar challenges as they try to keep up with growing demand, changing technology, and the increasing threat of wildfires. Projects like the Ravalli County Airport apron expansion show how local communities can work together with state and federal partners to improve safety, support economic growth, and protect people from natural disasters.
According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, investments in airport infrastructure not only help with immediate needs like firefighting but also lay the groundwork for long-term growth and resilience. By planning carefully and using a mix of funding sources, communities like Hamilton can make big improvements without putting too much strain on local budgets.
What’s Next for the Ravalli County Airport Apron Expansion?
The next steps for the project include:
- Finalizing Funding: Waiting for final approval of state and federal grants.
- Selecting a Contractor: Reviewing bids and choosing the best team for the job.
- Breaking Ground: Starting construction in fall 2025, if weather and funding allow.
- Phased Construction: Completing the most urgent parts first, with room for future expansion.
Local officials are optimistic that the project will move forward on schedule, but they are prepared to adjust if delays occur. The phased approach gives them the flexibility to respond to changing conditions and make the most of available resources.
Where Can You Learn More?
For more information about airport improvement projects and federal funding, visit the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Improvement Program page. This official government resource explains how airports across the United States 🇺🇸 can apply for grants and what kinds of projects are eligible.
Takeaways for the Community
- The Ravalli County Airport apron expansion is a major step forward for Hamilton and the surrounding area.
- The project will improve firefighting support, boost safety, and create new opportunities for economic growth.
- Construction could begin as soon as fall 2025, with a flexible, phased approach to match available funding.
- Local, state, and federal partners are working together to make the project a reality, with strong support from the U.S. Forest Service and other stakeholders.
As the project moves ahead, residents and businesses can look forward to a safer, more capable airport that will serve the community for decades to come.
Learn Today
Apron → The paved area where aircraft park, refuel, load, and unload at an airport.
FAA Grant → Federal Aviation Administration funding supporting airport development and infrastructure projects.
SEAT → Single Engine Air Tanker, a small firefighting aircraft used to fight wildfires.
Phased Construction → A building approach dividing work into stages depending on available funding.
U.S. Forest Service → Federal agency managing national forests and assisting wildfire response efforts.
This Article in a Nutshell
The Ravalli County Airport plans apron expansion starting fall 2025, boosting firefighting support and economic growth. Funding from Montana and federal grants will cover most costs. The phased project aims to increase aircraft space, improve safety, and enhance northern Hamilton’s development opportunities while protecting communities from wildfire risks.
— By VisaVerge.com
