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Ocala
Thursday, March 28, 2024

Ocala resident shares thoughts on city’s airport needs

In response to recent letters from Marion County residents in support of bringing commercial flights to Ocala International Airport, an Ocala resident wrote in to share thoughts on the growing city’s airport needs.

“With the way this area is growing, yes, we will eventually need an airport. I’m talking about a municipal airport, not an international one which Orlando has. An airport with flights to other hubs, similar to what Gainesville Regional Airport offers. We do have Ocala International Airport which is closer to Dunnellon, and it has a lot of land which can be utilized to create a very nice and simple airport with plenty of parking. Wouldn’t it be nice to fly to Fort Lauderdale or Miami, rent a car, and drive to the Keys, eliminating the drive on I-95 or the Turnpike for a quick vacation? Or to Charlotte or Atlanta to connect to your other flights to major cities. It would definitely help with business meetings.

Yes folks, we are a growing city, and yes, it’s going to get busier. We should try to accommodate that growth while the land is available to avoid having to be concerned about eminent domain issues in the future. Think about it, that’s exactly what we are having to deal with right now with the proposed Turnpike Extension: issues that did not have to happen if the Turnpike was done the way it should have been done 30 years ago. Let’s not let that happen with an airport.

This is my opinion. I’m sure some will agree with me and others won’t. Just be realistic, life goes on and growth happens.”

Regi Reyno
Ocala resident

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