Park to Aid with Airport Expansion Project

Grand Teton National Park has agreed to allow the Jackson Hole Airport to use a previously disturbed area for the stockpiling of construction materials and equipment needed for an upcoming airport terminal expansion project. The area is located on the east side of Highway 26/89/191, in close proximity to the airport, and may be visible to passing motorists. Grand Teton also plans to temporarily stockpile gravel and other materials in the same location for use on road improvement projects scheduled for July and August.

In discussions with the Jackson Hole Airport board, Grand Teton officials recognized that allowing the airport to use an alternate stockpile area would alleviate safety concerns regarding the operation of the Teton Interagency Helibase located at the northern end of the airport parking lot. It will also reduce disruptions to both public and employee parking. The Teton Interagency Helibase supports firefighting activities, search and rescue operations and other emergency services for Grand Teton National Park, Bridger-Teton National Forest and the National Elk Refuge.

Contractors for the airport terminal expansion project will only be permitted to stockpile materials and equipment on previously disturbed land; the area will be enclosed with a secure fence to prevent people and wildlife from entering the site. In order to lessen traffic to and from the stockpile location, certain restrictions will apply. The materials and equipment stored in the area will not be accessed on a regular basis; generally, no more than three trips per day will occur between the stockpile site and the airport. In addition, warning signs will be placed to alert motorists traveling Highway 216/89/191 about the potential for trucks crossing the road.

The Jackson Hole Airport terminal expansion project is consistent with the terms of the current agreement between the airport board and the Department of the Interior. Additional space is required in the terminal building to accommodate ticketing functions and security procedures, as well as baggage handling and screening operations. The project is expected to begin in mid-July.