MOUNT VERNON – A groundbreaking ceremony for the new aviation facility at the Knox County Airport was officially held on Tuesday, October 22nd.
The facility is designed to give local residents access to local aviation education opportunities and features a large hangar with classrooms that can be modified to accommodate different types of learning.
Those attending the groundbreaking ceremony included Ohio State University Senator Andrew Brenner, Representative Darrell Kick, Knox County Commissioner Tom Collier, Andrea Reese of the Ohio State University Extension Office, and Mount Vernon Mayor Matt Starr. attended the groundbreaking ceremony.
“This is going to be extremely important for Knox County and the region given the growth that’s coming through Intel and other companies just south of it,” Brenner said. “As more people move to the region, the need for skilled professionals in the airport and aviation sector will increase.”
Kick pointed to the potential the facility would bring to local agriculture.
“This is not just for kids learning about aviation,” he said. “This is also about the potential for 4H projects, FFA projects, and drone training, which are so prevalent in many aspects of life right now.”
Mayor Starr said of the new facility, “This center will be a hub of learning, skill-building and exploration that will develop the next generation of aviators, engineers and industry professionals.”
“Knox County Airport is a true economic driver for our community, and we are happy to have it,” Collier said.
The project is estimated to cost approximately $1.5 million and will be funded primarily by state capital funds.
The airport plans to cover the remaining costs through grants and community fundraising efforts. The grand opening is currently scheduled for the end of 2025.
