To the Editor:
This is a response to the reader recommending that others stop bellyaching over their desire to see commercial flights into and out of Ocala. Having considerable experience myself with suburban and metropolitan life, I would say that many of us prefer to not normalize a three-hour drive in traffic with considerable tolls. That isn’t actually a badge of honor nor is it a reflection of expertise.
I, too, would enjoy commercial flights in Ocala much like those found in Gainesville, Sanford, or Clearwater/St. Pete. One only needs to look at those three communities to realize they haven’t lost their quaint small-town feel due to commercial air travel options.
A community survey coupled with the airport authorities’ comments would be useful in this debate. It is possible Ocala International Airport may need additional runway/ramp improvements, land acquisitions, etc. However, that doesn’t mean we shouldn’t explore the possibility of adding commercial flights to our hometown. I trust the Ocala/Marion County executives are capable of managing growth while simultaneously maintaining our small-town feel.
Don Buckley
Dunnellon resident