Upgrades at Orange County Set to Fuel Economic Growth

Often citizens of communities forget what their local airport really is - a driver of economic growth and development. Of course, an airport needs lots of employees in order for it to keep humming along, and air service, I think, is a necessity for a community that wishes to participate in the global economy. A recent study examining the effects of upgrades to Orange County's airport really displays the impact an airport (in this case, an airport improvement project) can have - according to the study every $1 spent on the project will produce $2 in the local economy. The project, slated to cost $543 million, will also create 6,670 jobs.

Airport director Alan Murphy said that "it is gratifying to know that not only are we able to bring much-needed improvements to Orange County’s only commercial service airport, but at the same time we are making a positive contribution to the local economy and job market."

The project includes the construction of a new passenger concourse (Terminal C), which will have six gates. The new terminal is taking the place of a parking garage, so a new garage is being constructed as well.

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