Tri-State Chamber Coalition to Meet with Congressional Officials to Improve Air Service at Local Airport
The Tri-State Chamber Coalition, comprised of the Ashland Alliance, Huntington Regional Chamber of Commerce and the Lawrence County Chamber, is meeting in Washington, D.C. this week with the offices of the senators and congressmen of all three respective states with the focus of retaining and improving air service for the Tri-State Airport.
This week’s trip has been arranged to garner congressional support for the Coalition's airport initiatives. The leaders of the three Chambers will later be meeting with airline officials to encourage consideration of upgrading or establishing additional air service at Tri-State Airport.
"We are excited for the opportunity to meet with our congressional representatives and to inform them of the Coalition's initiatives to improve regional air transportation," said Mark Bugher, president and CEO of the Huntington Regional Chamber. "The support of our Senators and Congressmen in all three states is a key component in encouraging airlines to offer or improve service at Tri-State Airport."
The group is also inquiring about additional financial support opportunities that may be available to market and expand the local airport's service. “The Tri-State Airport is our regional airport,” said Jim Purgerson, president of the Ashland Alliance. “Strengthening service at the airport is important to the region’s economic development efforts.”
Bill Dingus, executive director of the Greater Lawrence County Area Chamber of Commerce, agrees. “The Tri-State Airport is a benefit to all who live, work and visit the tri-state area,” Dingus said. “Informing our congressional officials of the airport’s importance is the first step in improving air service.”
The Coalition announced its formation in December along with a $90,000 financial contribution to the Airport Authority, which is to be allocated over a three-year period.
