Prescott Acts to Protect Regional Airport Through Strategic Land Acquisition

As Prescott Regional Airport (PRC) cements its role as a critical hub for economic activity in the region, the city is taking proactive steps to mitigate the risks of incompatible land uses that could jeopardize its future operations and growth. Rick Crider, the Airport's Director, underscores the importance of strategic land acquisition around PRC — a move designed to ensure that the surrounding development doesn't clash with the airport's safety standards and operational needs. The airport, which provides daily flights to Denver and Los Angeles via United (operated by SkyWest Airlines), relies on clear surrounding airspace to maintain the safety and efficiency of aircraft operations.

According to Crider's recent commentary, the City of Prescott has been engaging with property owners to acquire land for airport protection purposes, a challenging venture that often brings a high price tag. Spending City dollars to secure open spaces for preservation differs fundamentally from airport land acquisition. Crider said, "The decision to spend taxpayer dollars for conservation and recreation are made from a very different set of criteria than airport protection, which focuses more on compatible development and potential future expansion. While both types of land acquisition are policy decisions made by our elected leaders, each have different criteria and rationale."

The director outlines several reasons why safeguarding the airport's vicinity is key — including the safety of aircraft operations, noise mitigation, operational flexibility, and compliance with aviation regulations. Airports like the PRC operate within specific zones where regulations on building heights and land usage are strictly guided by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to prevent any encroachment that could impede aviation activities. Furthermore, by protecting the airport's boundaries, the community ensures PRC continues to contribute to regional economic development and remains competitive in the aviation industry.

Prescott's commitment to protecting open spaces isn't solely dedicated to the airport's needs. In 2023, the city combined forces with Prescott Valley and Yavapai County in an Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) to secure land around Glassford Hill for conservation and recreational activities. Crider points out, "Prescott citizens clearly value open space for recreation as it enhances quality of life."

While Crider clarifies that decisions on land acquisition — whether for airport protection or recreational use — rest in the hands of elected officials, the thrust of his argument tilts towards a vision where prudent spending aligns with community service and foresighted urban planning. "In closing, the case for protecting PRC from incompatible land uses is a sound one.  When the City has the opportunity to leverage state and federal investment while protecting and expanding an important economic catalyst within our community, a very strong case for City investment in its airport becomes even more profound. Open space for preservation and recreational activities can also be considered a sound policy and in both cases these decisions are made by our elected leadership, informed by the community they serve," Crider reasons.