### Ralph Cordova Jr. County Executive Officer

July 22, 2014
Secretary Anthony Foxx 

### COUNTYEXECUTIVE OFFICE

United States Department ofTransportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue SE Washington, DC 20590 County Administration Center 940 Main Street, Suite 208 El Centro, CA 92243 760-482-4290 Tel 760-352-7876 Fax ralphcordova@co.imperial.ca.us www.co.imperial.ca.us·

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,.., "• . ""'". RE: Petition of El Centro, California (Imperial County Airport "IPL") for a waiver from the 10- enplanement statute, Docket DOT-OST-2008-0299

Dear Secretary Foxx: As expressed in the attached letters of support and the following documentation, the residents and delegation of Imperial County, California are committed to ensuring the success and longevity of air travel between the Imperial Valley, San Diego and Burbank. Pursuant to DOT Order 2014-6-6 and 49 U.S.C. 41731(e), we urge you to grant a waiver and an exemption from 49 U.S.C. 41731(a)(1)(B) to Imperial County on the basis that it is clear the decline in passengers below the necessary ten per day was in fact temporary. Imperial County Airport {IPL) is one of 13 Essential Air Service (EAS) airports that were notified by Final Order by the United States Department ofTransportation (US DOT) on June 241h, 2014 that the community was no longer eligible for EAS funding because the airport failed to meet the criteria requirement to serve at least ten passengers per day during the year-ended September 30, 2013. Further, the Final Order indicates that the community needs to; 11Show cause as to why the Department of Transportation should not terminatethe eligibility ofthe community underthe Essential Air Service (EAS) pr()gram." As this letter will demonstrate, the service area around IPL was hard-hit by the Global Credit and Mortgage Meltdown Crisis in 2008, but economic and demographic trends have improved since. In addition, the EAS airline and routes changed in May 2013, and in the short time since a new airline and new service has been in place, passenger acceptance has built steadily. However, the service transition was a large factor in IPL's daily passenger decline and we believe the traffic dip to be a shot term, temporary issue that will improve considerably over the next year.

ANEQUAL OPPORTUNITY/AFFlRJ'vlATIVE ACTION EJ\!lPLOYERIntroduction IPL is located in Southeastern California bordered by Arizona to the East, San Diego County to the West, and Mexico approximately 20 miles to the South. Even though it is about 113 miles to San Diego, road access to the riearest large hub airportfrom Imperial County is made uniquely more challenging than distance alone due to congestion, weather and the daily traffic caused by stationary border patrol traffic stops on all major roadways leading out ofthe County. As demonstrated below, SAN is the closest major airport to Imperial County, but it is almost atwo hour drive. It is common to have significant traffic delays along Interstate 8 and Interstate 5 in San Diego County on a regular basis. It is typical for residents toadd 30 to 45 minutes to their commute tofactor in the impacts ofthe stationary border patrol stops. Figure 1: Distance to MajorAirports from Imperial County

213 3 hours, 26 minutes 243 3 hours, 53 minutes 296 4 hours, 16 minutes 384 6 hours, 2 minutes 613 8 hours, 40 minutes 591 9 hours, 21 minutes 596 9 hours, 36 minutes
Sources: California Dept of Finance; US Census Bureau; CA Employment Development Dept; Rand McNally.com The border patrol stops increase the amount oftimethat passengers need to travel to other airports, as well as the community's reliance, thus importance, on IPL foraccess to the national and international air transportation network to support economic growth in the area. In addition, traveling to either San Diego International Airport (SAN) or Burbank's Bob Hope Airport (BUR) also means passengers are driving in two ofthe top 15 most congested regions in the US. 1 Traveling to Burbank involves driving along the congested Interstate 10 and Interstate 5from the Imperial Valley. IPL's passenger performance peaked in 2007 with 64 enplanements per day on United Express. In 2008, the economy of Imperial County was devastated by the housing crisis and economic recession, which. greatly hurt the county, the state ofCalifornia, and the country. That said, from 2008 to 2012, passenger performance at IPL was approximately double the US DOT's EAS threshold often passengers per day. So despite the hard economictimes, IPL clearly valued its airport and utilized its service as much as possible.

1 Greater Los Angeles is the 2nd most congested car travel market and San Diego is ranked 15th (Texas A&M Transportation Institute, Annual Transportation Survey)
2Economic and Demographic Trends in Imperial County The economy of Imperial County was hard hit by the Global Credit Crisis and Mortgage Meltdown of 2008, but prudent investments in the future have been made there, and positive results are being achieved. Imperial County was disproportionately impacted by the poor global economy because it is a market that relied upon the agricultural sectorforjobs. This coupled with the loss of construction jobs in the county due to the housing crisis leftthe county as one ofthe worst performing economic areas in California. Offshoring of manufacturingjobs toAsia has also affected Imperial County's economy; however as wages increase in Asia, jobs are starting to return to Mexicali, Mexico, and Calexico, California which are located directly across from each other on the US-Mexico border. Imperial County is now looking to diversify its economy with green-energy companies and agoal to become the renewable energycapital ofthe country. Tenaska Solar Ventures is one ofthe companies committing to the area with an investment of morethan $500 million in the Imperial Valley's economy. This project will lead to construction jobs, 70 percent ofwhich will be local. It

# will also support more than $20 million in construction contracts to local companies. Other companies also investing and partnering with the county include Ocotillo Wind, CalEnergy, and 8minute Energy all ofwhich are renewable energy firms. Figure 2: Imperial County's Historical Population and Total Personal Income Per Capita
185 35 ra 180 175 170 c 165 0**~** ..!!! 160 :::s c. 155 0 0..

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# ... 0 1- 135 ' 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 -Population**·~-·Total** Personal Income Per Capita (Current Dollars)

Source: Woods & Poole Housing values in Imperial County demonstratethe impactthe economic recession had on the county. In 2007, median housing values peaked at almost $250,000, but decreased to a low of$130,000 in 2011. In 2012 the housing values began to show signs of rebounding with an increase of 2 percent per annum.

3Figure 3: Median Household Value

MEDIAN VALUE: Owner-occupied housing units 300 250**1-----~~--~~--------------------------** 

# §

# 200+-~~~-------~--~~"·~---------------­**~** 

### / Qj :::1 150

### ~ 100 

## 50.+-------------------------------------------

0 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012

Source: American Community Survey, US Census Historical Passenger Performance at IPL Ofthe thirteen EAS airports impacted by the US DOT's Final Order, IPL has the highest number of passenger enplanements at 9.5 per day as shown on Figure 5. It bears notingthat this is only halfan enplanement per day lowerthan the US DOT's minimum requirement for EAS funding, and that it rounds to the US DOT's minimum level often. Figure 4: List ofAirports Listed in Tentative Order Regarding Termination of EAS Eligibility



### El Centro California 

### 9.5 Fort Dodge Iowa 

### 9.4 Greenville Mississippi 

### 9.3 Jackson Tennessee 

### 7.8 Merced California 

### 7.7 Bradford Pennsylvania 

### 6.9 Lancaster Pennsylvania 

### 6.3 Muscle Shoals Alabama 

### 6.3 Athens Georgia 

### 5.9 Franklin/ Oil City Pennsylvania 

### 5.0 Macon Georgia 

### 4.0 Hagerstown Maryland 

### 3.9 an Arizona 

### 2.7

Source: US DOT Tentative Order Regarding Termination of EAS Eligibility

4IPL has been served by two carriers, United Express, operated by SkyWest Airlines C'UAX"), which ceased service in April of2013 and SeaPort Airlines ("SeaPort"), which took overthe flying in May of 2013 when the US DOT selected SeaPort as the new EAS carrier. UAX served the market for a long time and had built a loyal following. When UAX was serving IPL, flights were operated to Los Angeles International Airport ("LAX"), the third busiest airport in the US. The UAX service benefitted passengers because LAX has considerable connecting options with a diverse group ofairlines serving a large number of domestic and international cities. Connecting service is key because the majority (78%) of IPL's passengers traveled beyond LAX in 2012 on UAX's service. 2 The local origin and destination market passenger demand is low, which is typical for most non-hub airports. SeaPort's service replaced flights to LAX with operations to SAN, the 29th busiest large-hub passenger airport in the US, and BUR, a medium-hub facility north of Downtown Los Angeles in the San Fernando Valley. Despite the advantage of having access to two airports, this federally mandated new service initially attracted fewer passengers because it is flown on smaller aircraft (nine versus 30 seats) to new markets and its brand was unknown to most ofthe County. As a result ofthe smaller aircraft operated by SeaPort, the number ofdaily seats offered from IPL is approximately halfthe level provided by UAX as shown on Figure 6. Figure 5: IPL's Average Seat Departures per Day

120 '06 UAX: LAX & YUM 100

80 '04 UAX: '11 UAX:YUM is cancelled in LAX& February '13 Seaport > enters in May; ta 0 UAX leaves IPL

........ 60 in April 

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.... ta QJ Vl 40

20

0 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Ill United Airlines Seaport Airlines Source: lnnovata Schedules, via Diio, Annual seats divided by 365 days, CalendarYear, in 2013, United's service transitioned to SeaPort Airlines

2 US DOT O&D Survey, Calendar year 2012
5A critical reason for fPL's low passenger performance after SeaPort began flying was that SeaPort initially lacked the interline agreements in place to allow passengers and bags totransfer at SAN and BUR to other airlines smoothly. Furthermore, SAN and BUR service levels offerfewer connecting opportunities than LAX. For example, United, the second largest carrier at SAN behind Southwest Airlines, serves seven domestic markets, including LAX, with 35 dailyflights, compared to 48 domestiC and 12 international markets with 184 daily flights from LAX. Southwest has no interline relationship with any carrier across its network. Passengers can connect to/from aSouthwest flight but have to retrieve th!;!ir checked bags, then check in separately with Southwest. Interline agreements will typically check bags and provide tickets to passengers all the way through theirjourney. Now, however, SeaPort has interline agreements with carriers operating at SAN and/or BUR, including Alaska Airlines (which has significant operations at both airports). And, although SAN and BUR may offer fewer connecting opportunities, both still offersignificant connecting opportunities to domestic and transborder service- including nonstop flights from SAN to both London Heathrow {LHR), and Tokyo Narita {NRT). As shown on Figure 7, IPL consistently generated approximately twenty passengers per day 2009-2012, IPL passenger traffic peaked in 2007 whenthe airport had nearly twice daily service to LAX and Yuma, Arizona ("YUM"). United's service with multiple online and interline connecting opportunities at LAX· allowed both business and leisure passengers to travel globally and in addition, the larger 30 seat Embraer 120 aircraft can accommodate more demand. Figure 6: Historical Enplanements per Day

60.0 

### +--------- 50.0 ·+---------

20.0 10.0 0.0

Source: T-100 Data, via Diio, YE September, Based on 313 dav.s Only year that IPL is below the US DOT's threshold of 10

6Figure 7: El Centro Imperial County Historical Load Factor

.... 0



### .... u_ 60%
50%
40% 

### 8!. 30% "C 111 0



### ..... 20%
10%

0%

Source: T-100 Data, via Diio, YE September During 2007, IPL also reached its highest load factor of 52% as shown on Figure 8. IPL was hard hit by the weak economy in 2008, 2009 and 2010 with an immediate decline in traffic and load factor. As IPL started to emerge from the recession, airtravel increased to 20.6 in 2012. As the Department recognized, traffic at IPL "decreased significantly" starting in late 2012 when Skywest stopped basing an aircraft at IPL, thereby eliminating an early morning departure to the hub and late evening arrival from the hub. See DOT Order 2013-1-2, at 3. In 2013, the US DOT selected a new airline, Seaport, serving new markets, and passengertraffic decreased. SeaPort is basing an aircraft at IPL thus permitting an early morning departurefrom, and late evening return to, Imperial. Such a schedule is more passengerfriendly and should help improve traffic levels. This decrease is temporary because the community is adjusting to the new airline, destinations, flight schedules, and a smaller aircrafttype. Additionally, SeaPort needed time to negotiate critical interline agreements with other airlines at BUR and SAN. In the future, passenger traffic will benefit from the interline agreements that SeaPort Airlines has signed with Alaska Airlines (which operates at both SAN and BUR). Two more interline agreements with other airlines are due to be signed shortly. These agreements will greatly help generate passengers at IPL with convenient connections at BUR and SAN. Additionally, SeaPort is in the process ofjoining a major carrier's frequent flyer program- expected to be completed by December, 2014.

7SeaPort Airlines Marketing Plan SeaPort Airlines, Inc. is implementing a mix of marketing and public relations efforts to build brand awareness, develop trust and increase local enplanements. First and foremost, SeaPort has positioned. itself as Imperial Valley's hometown service, providing Imperial Valley with convenient and reliable air service at low prices (currently as low as $53.50 each way). Second, SeaPort bases aircraft at IPL, thereby enabling an early morning departure and late evening arrival at IPL, which even the Department has previously noted was an important aspect of having successful service. Third, SeaPort has signed interline agreements with major carriers serving both SAN and BUR, and is pursuing several other interline relationships. This will substantially broaden travel options for IPL passengers and will facilitate theirtravel. Fourth, SeaPort maximizes "reach" through "worldwide connections", established through extensive investment in distribution through the GDS and interline agreements, making flights easy to find and book where passengers are most likely to search online (e.g. Online Travel Agents (OTAs), metasearch, and aggregators). Since it was selected by the USDOT to serve IPL, SeaPort's marketing strategy in Imperial Valley has leveraged both traditional and emerging media to achieve objectives, and has included the following tactics:

• Outdoor advertising (billboards) • Radio advertising (bothEnglish-speaking and Spanish-speaking demographics) • Local community outreach and presentations • Event marketing • Cause marketing • Digital advertising/search engine marketing • Digital marketing, content marketing, and use ofsocial media • E-mail marketing • Strategic partnerships with local organizations (EI Centro Chamber, Imperial Chamber & IVECD) • Promotional fare sales SeaPort will continue to employthis mix oftactics to reach both business and leisure travelers in Imperial Valley, and increase its efforts aggressively in the remainder of2014, in light ofthe recent endangerment of EAS eligibility in Imperial Valley. Specific campaigns planned immediately include:

• Use of moveable trailers and signs throughoutthe valley to promote service ("migrating billboards") • KXO radio "Hometown service. Worldwide connections." campaign promoting interline connectivity from Imperial Valley. • Heavy distribution of printed materials (like rack cards), in both Spanish and English • Summerfare sale • Satellite community outreach SeaPort will continueto pursue more interline agreements to increase Imperial Valley connectivity and visibility. Additionally, SeaPort's planned website redesign 2014-2015 will include implementation of a multi-language site, opening up reach even further globally.

8It is also worth noting thatjurisdictions within Imperial County have instituted Travel Justification Forms that require out oftown travel to utilize SeaPort Airlines service. Directing important business travelers to use SeaPort's service will also help to build awareness and traffic at IPL. Figure 8: SeaPort Airlines Card Rack Marketing 

# SEA; PORT

====:-AIRLINES

Source: SeaPort Airlines

9Figure 9: SeaPort Airlines Billboard in Imperial Valley

Source: SeaPort Airlines Conclusion Despite the effects ofthe recession, IPL's traffic levels had remained above the mandatoryten enplanements per day by at least six passengers every year except for 2013. SeaPort Airlines entered the Imperial Valley market in 2013, and even duringthattransitional time enplanements were onlyslightly below the required 10 daily passengers and higherthan any ofthe other at-risk EAS communities

.. The economy of Imperial Valley continues to improve and the SeaPort Airlines service is vital in the recovery. Once SeaPort's interline agreements take effect, IPL should easily exceed the threshold often enplanements per day as the flights will have the benefit of connecting passengers. The entire Imperial County, including many of its most important constituents are dedicated to developing SeaPort's success.

10As such, it is certain thatthe passenger performance below US DOT EAS minimums is atemporary circumstance related to the entrance ofa new carrier serving new markets from IPL. The community of Imperial County is unified in its support ofthe SeaPort service and will take every opportunity to use the service when travelling by air. Under these circumstances, Ifeel awaiver is in order and I urge the USDOTto grant itforthwith to Imperial County so we can preserve our important airtravel link.

Imperial County Executive Officer

Attachments: Letters ofSupport

11WASHINGTON 0.FFICE 1805 LONCWOqTH WASHI>IBTON, D.C. 20515 (202) 225-8045 F>.x: (202) 225-9073 CHU!..A VIsTA OFFICE 333 F STREET, SUITE A CHULA VmA, CA 9191 0 (fi19) 422.-5963 FAx: (619) 422-7290 EL C5NTRO OFFICE 380 NORTH B·rH STREET, #14

E1. CENTP.O, CA 92243

(760)355·8800

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FAx: (760) 321-9664 VAAGAS.HOUSE.GOV



### Secretary Anthony Foxx U.S. Department ofTransportation 1200Nevv· Jersey Ave. SE Washington, DC 20590. Dem SecretaryFoxx, 

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### July 10, 2014 CoMMITTEE ON FoREIGN AFFAIRS
MmDt.E EAST AND NoRTH AFHiC.A**Tt::~ROfUSM, ~l\')NPROUFEFtATrON,**  AN.[}**T~IAOE** CoMMITTEE ON AGRICULTURE
GENERhL**FAR~,.,** Cow..1oomr;.s AND RtsK MANAGEMENT 1-fORTICULTU!=lE, RESEAR.Ch" 8tOiE.CHNGl0GY AND FoHE!ON Aon:cULTIJRE
COMMITTEE ON House ADMINISTRATION
JOINT COMMITTEE ON PRINTING



## r\vritc to express

### my concerns vvith the U.S. Department ofTransportation's Final Order to terminate the Essential Air Service (EAS) program in El Centro, California located in the Imperial County portion ofthe 51 51 

### Congressional District, which I represent. I understand the Department's order intendsto implement the reforms included in the "J:ederal Aviation Administration Modernization and Reform Act,

.. which requires subsidized communities to maintain an average of 10 passenger enplanements per service day in orderto remain in the EAS program. However, as you consider a waiver, I urge you to cogitate the circumstances that contributed to Imperial County Airport's (IPL) unique year in which they vvere unable to meet the 10 enplanement average 

### by 0.5 passengers. Furthermore, 

### r ask that youconsider the detrimental economic 

### impacts 

### that may occur 

### as a result ofterminating

### the program. The Imperial County Airport has a tremendous track record ofsurpassingthe EAS program requirements put forth by the government Accordingto the Department ofTransportation, the Impei·ial Valley Airport 

### dramatically exceeded the**enplan~ment** 

### minimum in fou:r ofthe last five years. Beginning in FY 2009 and ending in FY 2012, the airport logged in 16, 17.7. 20. and 20.7**enplanements~** 

### respectively. Unfortunately, in 

### fY 2013, the Imperial Cc·unty AiJport barely fell below the ten enplanement threshold, by 

### reaching 9.5 cnplanements for the first time. I trust that this is a temporarydecline, as there vvere various factors that contributed to this momentary decrease in 

### daily enplanements. During FY 2013, Imperial County residents were forced to adaptto a change in EAS service carriers and adjust to newroutes. The Imperial County Airport \Vas served

### by SkyWest United until it ceased operations there in April 2013. During that 

### time, flights 1-vere operated to Los Angeles International Airp01i (LAX), which greatly benefinedpassengersbecause LAX is one ofthe largest airpmis in the United States. Furthermore. United's service included interline

. ·-·-···--·--------------·

### agreei11ents with a 

### diverse group of

### airlines which enabled passengers to 

### connect to a large numberofdomestic and international cities. 

### In May 2013 

### the Depmtment selected Seaport 

### Airlines as 

### the new EAS"can·ier. 

### Their service replaced flights to LAX \Vith service to lmge-hub San Diego International Airport (SAN) and 

### Bttrbank's Bob Hope Airport 

### (BUR), a medium-hub airpm1 north ofLAX. 

### Despite the advantage 

### ofhaving access to two airports, this federally mandated service attracted fewer passengers because 

### it is flown on a smaller aircraft, and Seaport

### did not initially have interline agreements in place to allowpassengers to transfer 

### at SAN and 

### BUR to other airlines. 

### In addition, SAN and BUR oftcr fe\.ver connecting opportunities than LAX, because fewer airlines 

### and routes are 

### served from 

### SAN and BUR. Seaport Airlines 

### has shared 

### their current 

### and future marketing efforts, and 

### has informed 

### me of the recent, steady increase 

### in daily cnphmements. 

### In addition, they established 

### an interconnection agreement \vith AlaskaAir1i..nes in March 2014. 

### J\Nas also notifiedthat several local governments and agencies in Imperial County have committed to utilize the local air carrier in support ofsustaining the airport as much aspossible. As you might imagine, we are all hopeful 

### that all these changes 

### are and 

### \vill continue to contribute to 

### the rise in daily enplanements so that Imperial County can continue to participate in the EAS program. Lastly, in addition to considering the unique factors impacting the lmperial County community 

### in FY 2013, I ask that you consider

### revisiting the way in which 

### enplanements are 

### averaged. Rather than look at a community's average enplanements on an annual basis, I urge the Department ofTransportation to consider the average enplanemenls owr the last tlu·ee fiscal years to truly gauge the community's activity and needs. This more comprehensive approach would ensure that communities encounteringa temporary challenge \vould continue to be eligible for the EAS program. As youknow, the Essential Air Service was pui into place to guaranteethat small communities, including those within the Imperial County, continue to be served bycertificated air carriers. 

### lt is essential to consider all factors before terminatii1g a much-needed program in a region with such need. Over thelast several years, Imperial County has experienced the highest unemployment rate in the nation. I believe that we should \VOrk 

### togetherto encourage economic 

### grov\·th. Thank you for your time and kindconsideration ofmy

### request Should you have any questions, please feel free to contactmy LegislativeDirector, Janine Pairis at (202) 225-8045. 

# t4
,./u'\1 VARGAS

# ~ Member ofCongress

·-·----·-·-----· ----·---·--·-·-----------·-··

### -------- ·-- ... --·------

### The Honorable Anthony Foxx Secretary 

### U.S. Department 

### ofTransportation 1200 New Jersey Ave. SE Washington, DC 20590



### Dear Secretary Foxx: 

# rnatr

June 27. 20l..J.

We write to .YOU 

### today to express our support for the petitions submilted 

### by Imperial County and Merced Regional Airports tor waivers to remain in the Essential Air Service Program 

### (EAS). We understand 

### Lhat both airports had a 

### tempora1·y decline in enplanements last fiscal year. 

### and because ofthat fell 

### under the threshold 

### necessary to continue receiving 

### EAS support. Both airports have conveyed that these declines in 

### enplanements during fiscal year 2013 were temporary. Imperial County Airport had a change in aircarriers during lhe first halfnflast year. This new air carrier initially lacked interline agreements \vith other airlines, and the community is still adjusting to new schedules and different routes. !'vlerced Regional Airport historically averaged above the minimum threshold. but also had several scheduling changes in 2013. as well as some issues 

### \Vith a major destination terminal that have since been resolved. We believe that the continuation ofthese two l:::AS programs in Ca!i!CJrnia is vital for the communities that depend on aftordable transportation options and hope you cmisider these petitions 

### favorably. Thank you lor your attention to this issue and we look forward to your response.

I



### Barbara Boxer United States Senator Sincerely.

Dianne Feinstein United States Senator·; r.. ;**~C.** ,**·-~; .~**  ·'·v.···' : ": :..- \<E**Tf"F:.-J."<::~** .\.Ci t.lq'3.

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SENATOR BEN HUESO FORTIETH SENATE DISTRiCT



### May 12,2014 Secretary Anthony Foxx U.S. Department ofTransportation 1200 NewJersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 RE: Docket DOT-OST-2008-0299 

### Dear Secretary Foxx, As the local State Senator for the region, I 

### write to express my concerns with the Department ofTransportation's Tentative Order to terminate the Essential Air Service (EAS) program in 

### El Centro, California located in Imperial County. I urge you to consider the negative economic impacts that may occur as a result ofthe proposed termination ofthe program. The Imperial County Airport has a tremendous track record of surpassing the EAS program requirements put forth by the government, as they have dramatically exceeded the enplanement minimum in four of the lastfive fiscal years. Unfortunately, in FY 2013, the Imperial County Airport barely fell below the ten enplanement threshold, by reaching 9.5 enplanements for the first time. As you know, the Essential Air Service was put into place to guarantee that small communities, including those within the Imperial County, continue to be served by certificated air carriers. Over the last several years, Imperial County has experienced the highest unemployment rate in the nation. Our federal government should encourage economic growth, and consider all factors before terminating a much-needed program in the region. As you prepare the Final Order, I urge you to consider the Imperial Valley's track record over the last three fiscal years, and ask that you consider the void that will be left should the Department ofTransportation ultimately decide to terminate the much-needed

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### (PAGE 2-CONTlNUED) SENATOR BEN HUESO FORTIETH SEN.!\TE DISTRICT '" ''·"

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### Essential Air Service program currently in effect at the Imperial County Airport. Thank you for your time and consideration of my request.

ij:EN HUESO California State Senator, District 40 CC:Rep.Juan Vargas John Renison Chairman Imperial County Board ofSupervisors

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### May 7, 2014 SecretaryAnthonyFoxx

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V. MANUEL PEREZ ASSEMBLYMEMBER, FIFTY-SIXTH DISTRICT



### U.S. Department ofTransportation 1200NewJersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 RE: Docket DOT-OST-2008-0299 

### Dear SecretaryFoxx, STANDING COMMITEES: Government Organization Insurance Jobs, Economic Development & the Economy Revenue and Taxation



### I write to express my concerns withthe Department ofTransportation's Tentative Orderto terminate the Essential Air Service (EAS) program in El Centro, California located in Imperial County. I urge you to considerthe negative economic impacts thatmay occur as a result oftheproposedtermination ofthe program. The Imperial County Airport has a remarkable trackrecord ofsurpassing the EAS program requirements put forth by the government, as they have dramatically exceededthe enplanetnent minimum in four ofthe last five fiscal years. The one exception is FY2013, when ImperialCounty Airport felljust slightly belowthe ten enplanementthreshold, achieveing 9.5 enplanements. As you know, the EAS program was putinto place to guaranteethat small communities, including those within Imperial County, continueto be served by certificated air carriers. Overthe last several years, Imperial Countyhas experienced the highestunemploymentrate in the nation. The EAS program supports local economic activity and growth, which ourregion needs morethan ever. As you prepare the Final Order, I urge you to considerthe Imperial Valley's solidtrackrecordoverthe lastthree fiscal years, and I askthat you considerthe devastating voidthatwill be left shouldthe Department ofTransportation decide to terminate the much-neededEAS program atthe Imperial County Airport. Should youhave any questions, please feel free to contact my SeniorRepresentative BiankaVelez inmyEl Centro office at 760-336-8912. Thankyou for your time and consideration. Sincerely, 

# y**A-J~-** v. MANUEL PEREZ Assemblymember, 56th District
DISTRICT OFFICES RIVERSIDE COUNTY 45-677 Oasis St., Indio, CA 92201 (760)342-8047 I FAX (760) 347-8704 IMPERIAL COUNTY 1625 W. Main St, #220, El Centro, CA 92243 (760) 336-8912 I FAX (760) 336-8914DISTRICT l JOHN R RENISON DISTR!CT2 JACKTERRAZAS DISTRICT3 MICHAEL W. KELLEY D!STR!CT4 RYAN E KELLEY DISTRICT 5 RAY CASTILLO
May 12,2014 Secretary Anthony Foxx

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U.S. Department ofTransp01iation 1200New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 

### RE: Docket DOT-OST-2008-0299 Dear Secretary Foxx, COUNTY ADMINISTRATION CENTER 940 MAIN STREET. SUITE 209 EL CENTRO, CA 92243-287I TELEPHONE: (760) 482-4220 FAX" (760) 482-4215

I write to express my concerns with the Department ofTransportation's Tentative Order to terminate the Essential Air Service (EAS) program in El Centro, California located in Imperial County. I urge you to consider the negative economic impacts that may occur as a result ofthe proposed termination ofthe program. The Imperial County Airport has an incredible track record ofsurpassing the EAS program requirements put forth by the government, as they have significantly exceeded the enplanement minimum in four ofthe last five fiscal years. Unfortunately, in FY 2013, the Imperial County Airpmi barely fell below the ten enplanementthreshold, by reaching 9.5 enplanements for the first time. As you know, the Essential Air Service was put into place to guarantee that small communities, including those within the Imperial County, continue to be served by certificated air carriers. Over the last several years, Imperial County has experienced the highest unemployment rate in the nation. Now more than ever with our economy still shaky, we need to keep the Essential Air Service program. Our federal government should encourage economic growth, and consider all the factors prior to terminating a much-needed program in the region. As you prepare the Final Order, I urge you to consider the Imperial Valley's track record over the last three fiscal years, the loss ofthis vital lifeline would not only greatly inconvenience travelers but would derail economic development efforts. I ask that you consider the void that will be left should the Department of Transportation in the end decide to terminate the much-needed Essential Air Service program currently in effect atthe Imperial County Airport. Thank you for yourtime and consideration ofmy request,

Board ofSupervisor

.-\\E(H

..\I.Ill'l'Oilll'\11'\! \1-'FIIi\L\li\E \CliO\ V\ll'l.01LHJuly 15, 2014 Secretary Anthony Foxx U.S. Department ofTransport<;ltion 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, D.C. 20590 CITY COUNCIL Geoff Dale- Mayor Mark Gran- Mayor Pro-Tem Rick Breland- Council Member Doug Cox- Council Member Betty Sampson- Council Member CITY CLERK Debra jackson CITY TREASURER

Stacy Cox

RE: Petition of El Centro for awaiverfrom the 10-emplanement statute, Docket -DOT-OST-2008-0299
Dear Secretary Foxx,
This letter is in support ofthe Essential Air Service {EAS) contract for Seaport Airlines from the Imperial CountyAirport (IPL). The City of Imperial recognizes thatthe air service provider did not maintain a minimum of 10 enplanements per day, as required by the program, howeverthis is atemporary situation and we support a waiver forthis order. Imperial County Airport is located in the City of Imperial in the Southeastern corner ofCalifornia. It is bordered by Arizona and Mexico. Even though it is about 114 miles to San Diego, road access to the nearest large hub airport is made uniquely more challenging than distance alone due to congestion, unpredictable border crossings, and road closures due to weather conditions on all roadways leading out of Imperial County. This increases the amount oftime that passengers need to travel to other airports, as well as increases the community's reliance on IPL and its EAS for access to the international airtransportation network to support economic growth in the area. IPL.has been served by two carriers, United Airlines operated by SkyWest, which ceased service in April of 2013, and Seaport Airlines, which began service in May 2013 when the US DOT selected Seaport as the new EAS carrier. Seaport's service replaced flights to LAX with service to large-hub San Diego International Airport "SAN" and Burbank's Bob Hope Airport (/BUR", a medium-hub airport North of LAX. Despite the advantage of having access to two airports, this federally mandated service attracted fewer passengers because it is flown on smaller aircraft, and Seaport did not initially have interline agreements in place to allow passengers to transfer at SAN and BUR to other airlines. As a result ofthe smaller aircraft operated by Seaport, the numberofdaily seats offered from IPL was approximately halfthe numberoffered by United.
IPL consistently generated approximately twenty passengers per day in 2009 through 2012. IPL passenger traffic peaked in 2007 when the airport had nearly twice daily service to LAX and YUMA, Arizona "YUM". United's service with online and interline connecting opportunities at LAX allowed both business and leisure travelers to travel globally and on a larger aircraft, the 30-seat Embraer 120. During 420 SOUTH IMPERIAL AVENUE • IMPERIAL, CA 92251 • TEL {760) 355-4371 • FAX (760) 355-4718 • WWW.CITYOFIMPERIALORG2007, IPL also reached its highest load factor of52%. IPL was hit hard by the weak economy in 2008, 2009 and 2010 with an immediate decline in traffic and load factor. As IPL started to emerge from the recession, airtravel increased to 20.6 in 2012. In 2013, the US 

## oarselected a new airline, serving new markets and passenger traffic decreased.
This temporary decline is because the community must adjust to the new air service patterns at IPL, and Seaport needed time to negotiate interline agreements with other airlines at BUR and SAN. Additionally Seaport needed to fully establish their service hubs atthese other airports which proved to be a longer process than expected. At this time Seaport has an active interline agreement with Alaska Airlines and is negotiating additional opportunities. All three hubs are now working together for smooth customer service for both business and leisure travelers.
As such, it is certain thatthe passenger performance below US DOT minimum was atemporary decline related to the entrance ofa new EAS carrier serving new markets from IPL using a newtype ofaircraft. The City of Imperial andthe Imperial County region are unified in its support ofthe Seaport service.
The Essential Air Service program was developed to guarantee small communities, like Imperial County, continue to be served by certificated air carriers and have access to the National Transportation System. The City of Imperial, like many agencies and organizations, has made Seaport Airlines theirfirst option when traveling outside the County. As you evaluate the waiver phase ofthe EAS evaluation process, I urge you to seriously consider Imperial County Airport's track record overthe past several years. We request thatyou grant our airportthe much needed waiver it deserves to prove it can successfully and effectively utilize the EAS subsidy to support the critical air service our region needs.
Thank you for your consideration. Should you have any questions, please contactthe City of Imperial at the office ofthe City Manager, Ms. Marlene Best, (760) 355-4373 or email mbest@cityofimperial.org.

# ~------------------------ Geoff Dale Mayor City of Imperial

cc. Susan Kurland, Aviation and International Affairs Rebecca Terrazas-Baxter, Office ofCongressman Juan Vargas, CA-51 Kevin Schlemmer, Essential Air Service & Domestic Analysis Division Jamie Jones, David Turch & Associates Marlene Best, City of Imperial

### May9, 2014

SecretaryAnthony Foxx U.S. Department ofTransportation 1200 NewJersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 RE: Docket DOT-OST-2008-0299 Mayor and Councili\Jembers Cheryl Viegas-Walker Efrain Silva Sedalia Sanders Jason Jackson Alex Cardenas



### Essential Air Service Eligibility Waiver-Imperial CountyAirport [California] Dear Secretary Foxx: Imperial County Airport ("IPL") is one of 13 airports that were notified by Tentative Order by the United States Department ofTransportation ("US DOT") on April 24, 2014 thatthe community may lose Essential Air Service (11

### EAS"} eligibility because IPL has served fewer than ten passengers per day duringthe year-ended December 31, 2013. Further, the Tentative Order indicates thatthe community needs to "show cause as to whythe Department ofTransportation should notterminate the eligibility ofthe community under the Essential Air Service (EAS) program." I urge you to grant a waiver so that IPL does not lose its EAS eligibility on the basis that it is atemporary circumstance. IPL's passenger performance has dropped belowten passengers per day, however enplanements are improving. ' i 

### The servlce area around IPL was hardfhit bythe recession in 2008, but economic and demographictrends have improved since. In addition, the EAS airline and routes changed in May 2013, and in the short time since the newservice has been in place, passenger acceptance has built steadily. It is importantto note that IPL exceeded EAS enplanement minimums iri four ofthe last five fiscal years. In FY 2013, with a new carrier taking overthe service in May, IPL fell below the ten enplanement threshold, at 9.5 passengers.


## ElCentro City Hall 1275Main Street, El Centro, CA 92243 (760) 337-4540 Fax (760) 352-6177

### This is atemporary abnormality. The new carrier, SeaPort Airlines, has shared with us its five year strategy and commitment to this market. We are confident that enplanements will continue to steadily increase as both the economy improves and SeaPort executes its marketing strategy. IPL is located in Southeastern California bordered by Arizona to the East, San Diego County to the West, and Mexico tothe South. Even though it is about 114 miles to San Diego, road access to the nearest large hub airport to Imperial County is made uniquely more challenging than distance alone due to congestion, weather [high winds, snowthrough the mountains], occasional wild fires], and the unpredictably ofstationary/fixed border patrol traffic stops on all major roadways leading out ofthe County. This increases the amount of time that passengers need to travel to other airports, as well as increases the community's reliance on IPL for access to the national and international airtransportation networkto support economic growth in the area. The City of El Centro is the County seat and hometo several federal and state government agencies, such as the Social Security Administration, Employment Development Department, Internal Revenue Service, Department of Homeland Security, Bureau of Land Management, and others. Access to IPL for federal and state agencies is critical to control personnel travel time/costs. IPL is also essential for our community's economic survival. Our unemployment rate hovers around twenty-four percent (24%) and our median household income is $38,297 compared to $61,632 statewide. IPL plays a crucial role in our abilityto move potential investors in and out of Imperial County to encourage and support economic growth. Loss of Essential Air Service in Imperial County will have a devastating impact on our already disadvantaged community. For these reasons, we respectfully request thatthe DOT grant a waiverto allow Imperial Valley to continue its participation in the EAS program. Sincerely,

# c~~-.\~-~~ Cheryl Viegas-Walker Mayor CC: Honorable Congressman Juan Vargas Honorable Senator Ben Hueso Honorable Assembly MemberV. Manuel Perez City of El Centro Council Members Diane Caldwell, City Clerk Ruben A. Duran, City Manager Kris Becker, City Attorney

# CITY OF BRAWLEY

May 7, 2014 Secretary Anthony Foxx U.S. Department ofTransportation 1200NewJersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 RE:Docket

### DOT-OST-2008-0299 DearSecretaryFoxx, ADMINISTRATIVE OFFICES 383 Main Street Brawley, CA 92227 Phone: (760) 351-3048 FAX: (760) 351-3088



### I write to expres-s the City of Brawley's concerns- with the Department of Transportation's Tentative Order to terminate the Ess-ential 

### Air Service (EAS) program in El Centro, California located in Imperial County. The City ofBrawley urges youto consider the negative economic impactsthatmay occur as a result ofthe proposedtermination oftheprogram. The Imperial County Airport has a tremendous track record of surpassing the EAS program requirements put forth by the government, as they have dramatically exceeded the enplanement minimum 

### in four ofthe last five fiscal years. Unfortunately, in FY 2013, the Imperial County Airport barely fell below the ten enplanement threshold, by reaching 9.5 enplanements for the first time. As youknow, the Ess-ential Air Service was put intoplace to guarantee that small communities, including thos-e within the Imperial County, continue to be served by certificated air carriers. Over the last s-everal years-, Imperial County has- experienced the highest unemployment rate in the nation. Our federal government should encourage economic growth, and consider all factors before terminating a much-neededprogram intheregion. As youprepare the Final Order, the City urges youtocons-iderthe ImperialValley'strackrecord over the last three fiscal years, and as-ks that you consider the void that will be 

### left should the Department of Transportation ultimately decide to terminate the much-needed Essential Air Serviceprogram currentlyineffect attheImperial County Airport. Thankyoufor your time and considerationofourrequest. Sincerely'!

.
s**·~ ~**  ")

.... 

# .**w~~** 

# ·**~·t\[A'\}f(Q_** RosannaB on Moore CityManager

cc: Brawley City CounclSecretary Anthony Foxx U.S. Department ofTransportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 Dear Secretary Foxx, Firstly I want to take the opportunity to wish you a most successful tenure as Secretary of the US Department of Transportation. I vividly remember the meetingswe held when you were the Mayor of the Queen City, and myself as Consul General of Mexico in the Carolinas, particularly during the National Democratic Convention of 2012. Today, I write to you in order to convey many opinions that have arisen within the Hispanic population of Imperial Valley, in southern California in regard to the decision to terminate the Essential Air Service (EAS) program at Imperial County Airport (IPL), located in El Centro, California in Imperial County. Many user of the services at IPL", both from the US side, as well as from the neighboring Mexican city of Mexicali, Baja California (capital of the Mexican State of Baja California) have commented about the negative economic impacts that will ensue. Imperial County Airport ("IPL") has an interesting track record of surpassing the EAS programs daily enplanement requirement established by the government, as they have dramatically exceeded the enplanement minimum over the last decade. Unfortunately, in FY 2013, IPL had a major disruption to its service as United Express discontinued its link to LAX and Seaport Airlines replaced the operation with flights to San Diego and Burbank. This disruption led to IPL falling slightly below the ten daily enplanement threshold, reaching 9.5 enplanements for the first time. Key to the new airlines success is developing a brand in the market and important agreements with airlines that support smooth connections of passengers and bags at San Diego and Burbank. Seaport has been working hard to promote its service in the Imperial market and establish important relationships with other carriers to maximize connections for travelers. The Essential Air Service program was developed to guarantee small communities, like Imperial County, continue to be served by certificated air carriers and have access to the National Transportation System. As you evaluate the Waiver phase of the EAS evaluation process, I urge you to seriously consider Imperial County/EI Centro Airport's track record over the last decade. 1/We request that you grant our airport the much needed waiver it deserves to prove it can successfully and effectively utilize the EAS subsidy to support the critical air service our market needs

.. Again, please accept my friendly and respectful comments which are representative of many users of "IPL". Finally, I take this opportunity to provide my contact information in eastern southern California Sincerely

408 Heber Avenue, Calexico, CA. 92231-2811 Tels. (760) 357 10 10 Fax:(760) 357 6284 E-mail: cfloresv@sre.gob.mxSOUTHERN CALIFORNIA

ASSOCIATION 

### of GOVERNMENTS MainOffjce 818West Seventh Street 12th Floor Los Angeles, California 90017-3435

t (213) 236-1800 f (213) 236-1825

www.scag.ca.gov

Officers President Carl Morehouse, San Buenaventura FirstVice President CherylViegas-Walker, El Centro SecondVice President Michele Martinez, SantaAna Immediate PastPresident Greg Pettis, Cathedral City Executive/Administration CommitteeChair Carl Morehouse, San Buenaventura
.

PolicyCommitteeChairs Community, Economic and

Human Development MargaretFinlay, Duarte Energy &Environment Deborah Robertson, Rialto Transportation Alan Wapner, San Bernardino

Associated Governments May 13,2014 Secretary Anthony Foxx U.S. Department ofTransportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 Dear Secretary Foxx, The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) is writing in support of El Centro's appeal to reverse the Department of Transportation's Tentative Order to terminate the Essential Air Service (EAS) program in El Centro, California located in Imperial County. The Southern California Association of Governments (SCAG) is the largest Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) in the country representing six counties, 191 cities and over 18 million residents. SCAG advocates for a sustainable Southern California, while enabling dialogue between elected officials, agencies and citizens throughout the Region. Imperial County's Regional Council members and SCAG staff regularly utilize the flights between Imperial County and the Burbank Airport. In 2014, the travel time via single occupancy vehicle between Bob Hope Airport (BUR) and the City of El Centro ranges between 213- 265 minutes to travel 225 miles (SCAG 2012- 2035 Regional Transportation model). While the DOT eligibility is based on mileage and even with improvements to the surface transportation network, the driving times are long and unpredictable. Flying allows for more productivity. In the adopted 2012-2035 Regional Transportation Plan/Sustainable Community Strategy (RTP/SCS) the adopted Aviation Element advocates for a decentralized aviation system in Southern California that provides airport access across the Region. It is forecast Imperial County's population will growfrom 180,000to 270,000 which will yield substantial passenger grown at Imperial County Airport by 2035. This growth relies upon Imperial County's ability to provide quality education, encourage business growth and create good quality jobs in the future. Imperial County has one of the highest unemployment rates in the United States. The El Centro EAS service is the only reasonable means for Imperial County residents to discover opportunities for a more prosperous future. SCAG strongly supports. El Centro's request to reverse the Tentative Order Regarding Termination ofEAS Eligibility for El Centro, CA. Sincerely,

# ~/hc:Ptb Hasan lkhrata 

## {)d) Executive Director

The Regional Council consists of86 elected officials representing 191 cities, six counties, six co·untyTransportation Commissions, onerepresentative from theTransportation Corridor Agencies, oneTribal Government representativeand onerepresentative for theAirDistricts within SouthernCalifornia. 2014.05.05 printedon recycled paper @

### July 7, 2014 SecretaryAnthony Foxx U.S. Department ofTransportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 Dear Secretary Foxx, 

### IV IMPERIAL VALLEY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT CORPORATION



### The Imperial Valley Economic Development Corporation (IVEDC) respectfully requests the Department ofTransportation ("DOT") to reconsider their Final Order to terminate the Essential Air Service (EAS) program at Imperial County Airport ("IPL") located in El Centro, California in Imperial County. The negative economic impacts that will occur in our local market as a result ofthe proposed termination ofthe program and our commercial air service will be significant. Imperial County Airport ("IPL") has a tremendous track record of surpassing the EAS programs daily enplanement requirement established by the government, as they have dramatically exceeded the enplanement minimum over the last decade. Unfortunately, in FY 2013, IPL had a major disruption to its service as United Express discontinued its link to LAX and Seaport Airlines replaced the operation with flights to San Diego and Burbank. This disruption led to IPL falling 

### slightly below the ten daily enplanement threshold, reaching 9.5 enplanements for the first time. Key to the new airlines success is developing a brand in the market and important agreements with airlines that support smooth connections of passengers and bags at San Diego and Burbank. Seaport has been working hard to promote its service in the Imperial market and establish important relationships with other carriers to maximize connections for travelers. The Essential Air Service program was developed to guarantee small communities, ·like Imperial County, continue to be served by certificated air carriers and have accessto the National Transportation System. As you evaluate the Waiver phase ofthe EAS evaluation process, IVEDC urges you to seriously consider Imperial County/EI Centro Airport's track record over the last decade. We request that you grant our airport the much needed waiver it deserves to prove it can successfully and effectively utilize the EAS subsidy to support the critical air service our market needs

.. Sincerely,

Timothy E. Kelley President & CEO /.**··::.::~-:::-** ;...-**'.t-~·:**..

P.O. BOX 30051 EL CENTRO, CA 922441 P: 760.353.83321 F: 760.353.91491 WWW.IVEDC.COMRalph Cordova, Jr. CountyExecutive Officer



### May 21,2014 From: Ralph Cordova, Jr. To: All DepartmentHeads 

### Subject: Travel with Seapm 

### County 

### Executive Office CountyAdministration Center 940 WestMain Street, Suite 208 Ei Centro, CA 92243-2875 Telephone: (760) 482-4290 Fax: (760) 352-7876 ralphcordova@co.imperial.ca.us www.co.imperial.ca.us



### The Imperial Airport is currently being served by Seaport Airlines with scheduled round-trip air service to San Diego and Burbank. The existing Essential Air Service funding provided by FAA is in jeopardy unless passenger travel from our airport is maintained above a certain level. In order to help sustain this vital connection, I am requesting that all county departments strongly consider the use of Seaport's service when making**out-of~county** 

### travel requests. Besides the obvious benefit of retaining local passenger air service, there are other reasons to utilize the Seaport option. All of our most common travel destinations are readily available from connecting flights out of San Diego or Burbank. Flying out of Imperial eliminates the expense of driving to San Diego or elsewhere to catch a flight, and parking at our Imperial County Airport is free. In addition, Seaport offers very reasonable fares, especially ifbooked far enough in advance. The use of employee's time is another factor- instead of burning up hours driving to San Diego, they can leave directly from here. All flight schedule, fare ·and reservation information can be viewed· at www.seaportair.com. A revised Travel Justification form is attached for your use, which includes a question about airline selection. · All future travel requests submitted to this office will be scrutinized and may be subject to denial ifa non-local airline choice is not adequately explained. Please distribute this memo to the appropriate personnel in your departments, especially those responsible for makingtravel arrangements. Thank you.

### May, 9 2014 SecretaryAnthonyFoxx U.S. Department ofTransportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590

RE: DocketDOT-OST-2008-0299

Dear SecretaryFoxx, I write to express my concerns with the Department ofTransportation's Tentative Orderto terminate the Essential Air Service (EAS) program in El Centro, California locatedin Imperial County. Mr. FoxxI movedto the Imperial Valley in California only a year ago, but I did notice onething almost immediately. The Imperial Valleyhas one ofthe highest unemploymentrates in the country, butthis couldbe changed. Atthis momentthere are solar and wind farms beingbuilt in the Imperial Valley, and they require skilled laborers. As more solar and wind farms are built, I only see this need increasing overtime. These skilled laborers are coming in from outside ofthe Imperial Valley atthis time, and theyneed a local airport to service many oftheirneeds. There are local businesses in the areathat also need a local airport to service their needs too. The Imperial Valley is made up ofsmall businesses, and as we all know small businesses are the back bone ofthe American economy. · Atthis time Sea PortAirlines is the only airline servicingthe air travel needs ofthe Imperial Valley, which was 5,950 passengers last year. SeaPortAirlines is a small business, and closing the Imperial County Airport would costthem the sale ofthose airline tickets. I am sure that isn't a whole lot ofmoney ifyou compare it with the ticket sales ofa much larger airline. It

### is a lot of revenue ifyou are a small airline like SeaPort. Today I see so many ofthe large airlines merging into evenbigger airlines, and I feel that is cutting down on competition. We needto help out small airlines like SeaPort so thatthey may grow and become competitionto the airline giants. The closing ofthe Imperial County Airport would also affect the other areas and states the SeaPortAirlines services, places like Pendleton Oregon, and Athens Georgia. The Imperial CountyAirporthas a tremendous trackrecord ofsurpassingthe EAS program requirements put forth bythe government, as they have dramatically exceededthe enplanement minimum in four ofthe last five fiscal years. Unfortunately, in FY 2013, the Imperial County Airportbarely fell belowthe ten enplanementthreshold, by reaching 9.5 enplanements for the

### first time. As you know, the Essential Air Service was putinto place to guarantee that small communities, including those within the Imperial County, continue to be served by certificated air carriers. As you prepare your final order, I hope that you considerthe Imperial County Airports track record overthe past few years as well as the economic impactto SeaportAirlines, the other airports the service, and the Imperial Valley. Thankyou for yourtime in reading and considering myrequest. Sincerely, Aaron Leach7 May 2014 Secretary Anthony Foxx 

# {-,)PHOENIX WuNIFORl\IS

935 North Imperial Avenue El Centro CA 92243 760-353-9482 w\nv.uniforms9ll.com

U.S. Department ofTransportation 1200 NewJersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 RE: Docket DOT-OST-2008-0299 Dear Secretary Foxx: I write to express my objection to the Department ofTransportation's Tentative Orderto terminatethe Essential Air Service (EAS) program in El Centro, Californialocated in Imperial County. There will be severe negative economic impacts that occur as a result ofthe proposed termination ofthe program. Imperial County Airporthas a steadytrack record ofsurpassingthe EAS program requirements put forth bythe DOT, as we have dramatically exceededthe enplanement minimum in four ofthe
· last five fiscal years. Unfortunately, in FY 2013, the Imperial County Airportbarely fell below

theten enplanementthreshold, byreaching 9.5 enplanements for the first time Overthe last several years, Imperial County has experiencedthe highest unemploymentrate in the nation. Our federal government should encourage economic growth, and consider all factors beforeterminating a much-neededprogram inthe region. The EAS improves economic growth in a region, and ourregion needs it more than ever. The recent, temporary downturn in enplanements is due in partto the change in air carriers, which causes people who use expedia and other internet travel planners, to miss the availability ofair service into Imperial Airport. I myselfexperiencedthis same problem shortly after the change in air carriers. As youpreparethe Final Order, I urge youto considerthe Imperial Valley's track record overthe last three fiscal years, and askthat you considerthe voidthat will be left shouldthe Department ofTransportation ultimately decide to terminate the desperately-needed Essential Air Service program currently ineffect attlie Imperial County Airport. Also, the lost time & expense traveled bypassengers who will haveto usethe San Diego airport (a 350-mile roundtrip), and the extra greenhouse gasses polluting the environmentproduced by all those extra cartrips, are not considered inyour proposed Termination Order. Please rescind the Tentative Order to Terminate the Essential Air Service (EAS) program in El Centro, California. Very Truly Yours,

Bill DuBois El Centro CAMay 7, 2014 Secretary Anthony Foxx U.S; Department ofTransportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 RE: Docket DOT-OST-2008-0299 Dear Secretary Foxx, I write to express my concerns with theDepartment ofTransportation's Tentative Order to terminate the Essential Air Service (EAS) program in El Centro, California located in Imperial County. I urge you to consider the negative economic impact that may occur as a result ofthe proposed termination ofthe program. The Imperial County Airport has a tremendous track record of surpassing the EAS program requirements. put forth by the government, as they have dramatically exceeded the enplanement minimum in four ofthe last five fiscal years. Unfortunately, in FY 2013, the Imperial County Airport barely fell below the ten enplanement threshold, by reaching 9.5 enplanements for the first time. As you know, the Essential Air Service was put into place to guarantee that small communities, including those within the Imperial County, continue to be served by certificated air carriers. Overthe last several years, Imperial County has experienced the highest unemployment rate in the nation. Ourfederal government should encourage economic growth, and consider all factors before terminating a much-needed program in the region: As you prepare the Final Order, I urge you to consider the Imperial Valley's track record over the last three fiscal years, and ask that you consider the void that will be left should the Department ofTransportation ultimately decide to terminate the much-needed Essential Air Service program currently in effect at the Imperial County Airport. Thank you for your time and consideration of my request

## Since~~

# cf2~/ Fidel Gonzalez President/CEO

BRAWLEY OFFICE: I409 

### w. Main st: I Brawley, CA 92227 1(760) 351-2988 EL CENTRO OFFICE: I 1602 W. Main St. IP.O. Box 3247 1El Centro, CA 92243 I92244 I (760) 352,1540 

### www.ficu.com CALEXICO OFFICE: 12534 Rockwood Ave. Unit 1-A ICalexico, CA 92231 I(760) 357-5117I I 

# Soi-:Q:-orchard

Secretary Anthony Foxx U.S. Department ofTransportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 Dear Secretary Foxx, Farmlng the Sun

Iwriteto express my disappointment with the Department ofTransportation's ("DOT") Final Orderto terminate the Essential Air Service (EAS) program at Imperial County Airport r'IPL") located in El Centro, California in Imperial County. I urge you to consider the negative economic impacts that will occur in our local market as a result ofthe prqposed termination ofthe program and our commercial air service. Imperial County Airport nPL") has a tremendous track record ofsurpassing the EAS programs daily enplanement requirement established by the government, as they have dramatically exceeded the enplanement minimum over the last decade. Unfortunately, in FY 2013, IPL had a major disruption to its service as United Express discontinued its linkto LAX and Seaport Airlines replaced the operation with flights to San Diego and Burbank. This disruption led to IPL falling slightly below the ten daily enplanement threshold, reaching 9.5 enplanements for the first time. Key tothe new airlines success is developing a brand in the market and important agreements with airlines that support smooth connections of passengers and bags at San Diego and Burbank. Seaport has been working hard to promote its service in the Imperial market and establish important relationships with other carriers to maximize connections for travelers. The Essential Air Service program was developed to guarantee small communities, like Imperial County, continue to be served by certificated air carriers and have access to the National Transportation System. As you evaluate the Waiver phase ofthe EAS evaluation process, I urge you to seriously consider Imperial County/EI Centro Airport's track record overthe last decade. 1/We request thatyou grant our airportthe much needed waiver it deserves to prove it can successfully and effectively utilize the EAS subsidy to support the critical air service our market needs. Thank you for your time and consideration of my request. Very truly yours, 

## ,.)eff

# e.**~rothers** By:

_______ _ Jeff E. Brothers, President SOL ORCHARD, LLC

2435 Marshall Road, Imperial CA 92251I IllS 1.1 R A Ill C E i liM l'.t Q YEo I! EM E fIT .1$ 

### May 7, 2014 Secretary Anthony Foxx U.S. Department ofTransportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC '20590 

### RE: Docket DOT-OST-2008-0299 Dear Secretary Foxx, I write to express my concerns with the Department ofTransportation's Tentative Order to terminate the Essential Air Service (EAS) program in El Centro, California located in Imperial County. I urge you 

## to consider the negative economic impacts that may occur as a result of. the proposed termination ofthe**program~** 

### The Imperial County Airport has a tremendous track record of surpassing the EAS program requirements put forth by the government, as they have dramatically exceeded the enplanement minimum in four ofthe last five fiscal years. Unfortunately, in FY 2013, the Imperial County Airport barely fell below the ten enplanement threshold, by reaching 9.5 enplanements for the first time. As you know, the Essential Air Service was put into place to guarantee that small communities, including those within the Imperial County, continue to be served by certificated air carriers. Over the last several years, Imperial County has experienced the highest unemployment rate in the nation. Our federal government should encourage economic growth, and consider all factors before terminating a much-needed program in the region. As you prepare the Final Order, I urge you to consider the Imperial Valley's track record over the last three fiscal years, and ask that you consider the void that will be left should the Department ofTransportation ultimately decide to terminate the much-needed Essential Air Service program currently in effect at the Imperial County Airport. Thank you for your time and consideration of my request.

.... 

### "/{'- 

### \ 

# \ David M. Tyler

1225 W. Main Street El Centro CA 92243 

### I www.tylerins.com 

### I {760) 352·2611 

### I Fox (760) 337-8428 

### 1License No. 0226696

### Secretary Anthony Foxx U.S. Department ofTransportation 1200 NewJersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 

### RE: DocketDOT-OST-2008-0299 Dear Secretary Foxx, I write to express my concerns with the Department ofTransportation's Tentative Orderto terminate the Essential Air Service (EAS) program inEl Centro, California located inImperial Comity. 

### I urge you to considerthe negative economic impacts that may occur as a result ofthe proposedtermination oftheprogram. The Imperial County Airport has a tremendous trackrecord ofsurpassing 

### the EAS program requirements putforth by the government, as they have dramatically exceeded the enplanement minimum infour ofthe lastfive fiscal years. Unfortunately, in FY 2013, the Imperial County Airport barely fell belowthe ten enplanementthreshold, by reaching 9,5 enplanements for the first time. As you know, the Essential Air Service was put into place to guarantee that small communities, includingthose within theImperial County, continue to be served by certificated air carriers. Over the last several years, Imperial County has experiencedthe highest ur1employment rate in the nation. Ourfederal government should encourage economic growth, and consider all factors before terminating a much-needed program inthe region. As you prepare the Final Order, I urge youto considerthe Imperial Valley's trackrecord over the lastthree fiscal years, and ask that you considerthe voidthat will be left shouldthe Department ofTransportationultimately decide to terminatethe much-needed Essential Air Serviceprogram currently in effect atthe Imperial County Airport. Thank you for your time and consideration ofmyrequest. Sincerely,

# ~o.kMarisa

# Quinzi~**Es~** AssociateAttorney Plourd and Breeze, APC 1005 W. State Street 

### El Centro, CA 92243 Tel: 760-352-3130 Fax: 760-352-4763

## TheBestOldies OnThe

## Radio May 9 1 

### 2014 Secretary Anthony Foxx U. S. Department ofTransportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue/ SE Washington, DC 20590 RE: Docket DOT-OST-2008-0299 

### Dear Secretary Foxx 1 

### Station: 420 Main St. El Centro, CA 92243

(760) 352-1230 Mailing: P. 0. Box 140 Er Centro, CA 92244



### I'm writing to express my concerns with the Department ofTransportation's Tentative Order to terminate the Essential Air Service (EAS) program in El Centro, California located in Imperial
· County. I can't urge you enough to consider the negative economic impacts that may occur as

a result ofthe proposed termination ofthe program. The Imperial County Airport has atremendous track recorp ofsurpassing the EAS program requirements put forth by the government, as they have dramatically exceeded the enplanement minimum in four ofthe lastfive fiscal years. Unfortunately, in Fiscal Year 2013, the Imperial County Airport barely fell below the ten enplanement threshold, by reaching 9.5 enplanements for the first time. As 

### you know/ the Essential Air Service was put into place to guarantee that small communities, including those within the Imperial County, continue to be served by certificated air carriers. Over the last several years, Imperial County has**experienc~d** 

### the highest unemployment rate in the nation. Our federal government should encourage economic growth, and consider all factors before terminating a much-needed program in the region. As you prepare the Rna! Order, I urge you to 

### consider the Imperial Valley's track record over the last three fiscal years, and askthatyou consider the void that will be left should the Department ofTransportation ultimately decide to terminate the much-needed Essential Air Service program currently in effect at the Imperial County Airport. Thank you for your time and consideration ofmy request.

# ~4t- Gene P. Brister 

# Y

I 

### President/General Manager 

# -

KXO AM1230/FM 107.5 Radio

E-mail: kxoamfm@kxoradio.com • www.kxoradio.com EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY

# Burgers & 

# Beer® The BestBurgerIn Town May 7, 2014 Secretary Anthony Foxx U.S. Department ofTransportation 1200NewJersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 RE: Docket DOT-OST-2008-0299 

### Dear Secretary Foxx, Main Office 260 ImperialAvenue El Centro, Ca!i!omia 92243

(7@) 337-5788

- Ollicc (760) 353-4431 (760) 337-5663 FAX



### I write to express my concerns with the Department ofTransportation'sTentative Order to terminatethe Essential AirService (EAS) program in El Centro, California located in Imperial County. Iurge you to considerthe negative economic impacts that may occuras a result ofthe proposedtermination ofthe program. The Imperial County Airp01t has a tremendous track record ofsurpassing the EAS program requirements put forth by the govemment, as theyhave dramatically exceeded the enplanement minimum infour ofthe last five fiscal years. Unfortunately, inFY 2013, the Imperial County Airportbarely fell belowthe ten enplanementthreshold, by reaching 9.5 enplanements for the first time. As you know, the Essential Air Service was put into place to guarantee that small communities, includingthose withinthe Imperial County, continue to be servedbycertificated air carriers. Over the last several years, Imperial County has experienced the highest unemploymentrate in the nation. Ourfederal government should encourage economic growth, and consider all factors before terminating a much-needed program in the region. As youprepare the Final Order, I urge you to consider the Imperial Valley's trackrecord over the last three fiscal years, and askthat you considerthe void that will be left shouldthe Department ofTransportation ultimately decide to terminatethe much-needed Essential Air Serviceprogram currently in effect atthe Imperial County Airport. Thank you for your time and consideration ofmy request. Sincerely,



# t!<-J1/JJ Kurt Honold 

### IPresident 

### Burgers and 

### Beer

ELCENTRO {760) 353-4431 LV. MALL (760) 353-0007 RANCHO l\HRAGE (760) 202-4522 YUMA (928) 783-3987

# Burgers & 

# Beer® The BestBurgerln To'tlm May 7, 2014 SecretaryAnthony Foxx U.S. Department ofTransportation 1200 NewJersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 

### RE: 

### Docket DOT-OST-2008-0299 DearSecretary Foxx, i\'lain Oftke 260 Imperial Avenue El Ccntm,Cnlifornia 92243

(760) 337-5788- Office (760) 353-4431 (760) 337-5663 FAX



### I wTite to express my concerns with the Department ofTransportation's Tentative Orderto terminate theEssential Air Service (EAS) program in 

### E1 Centro, California located in Imperial County. I 

### urge you to considerthe negative economic impacts thatmay occur as a result ofthe proposed termination oftheprogram. The Imperial County Airport has 

### a tremendous track record ofsurpassing the EAS program requirements put forth by the government, as they have dramatically exceeded the enplanement minimum in four ofthe last five fiscal years. Unfortunately, in FY 2013, the Imperial County Airportbarely fell belowthe ten enplanementthreshold, by reaching 9.5 enplanements for the first time. As youknow, the Essential Air Service wasput into placeto guarantee that small communities, includingthose withinthe Imperial County, continue to be served by certificated air carriers. Overthe last several years, Imperial County has experienced the highestunemployment rate in the nation. Ourfederal government should encourage economic growth, andconsiderall factors beforeterminating a much-needed program in the region. As you prepare the Final Order, I urge you to considertheImperial Valley's track record over the last three fiscal years, and ask that you considerthe void that will be left should the Department ofTransportation ultimately decide toterminate the much-needed Essential Air Serviceprogram currently in effect at

### the Imperial County Airport. Thankyou for yourtime and consideration ofmy request. 

# SH

Jatme 

### Honold I

### Vice President 

### Burgers and Beer

ELCE:-iTRO (760) 353-4431 LV. MALL (760) 353-0007 R4.NCHO MlRAGE (760) 202-4522 Yli:VIA (928) 783-3987

# .e- ,. ' ' flltWAfl\.i'5 

### Secretary Anthony Foxx U.S. Department ofTransportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 

### 20590 

### Re; DOCKET DOT-OST 2008-0299 Dear Secretary Foxx, May 13,2014

I am writing this letter to express our severe concerns with the Department of Transportation's Tentative Order to tenninate the Essential Air Service ("EAS") program in El Centro, California located in Imperial County. We, therefore. strongly request that you rescind the Tentative Order. 8minutenergy Renewables, LLC is one the largest solar developers in the State ofCalifornia. Imperial County is the area where we have our largest presence. Therefore, effective andrapid means of transportation are essential for our business and tor the local economy. The local airport was a significant factor in making our decision to develop in Imperial County. To put into perspective our economic presence in Imperial County, since 2009 our projects have contributed approximately $40 million to the local economy in the form ofpayments to the local governmental agencies, employment wages, and Land acquisition tor 

### the multiple development projects. We are about to spend an additional 

### $20 million for a project that we plan to start construction late this year. In addition, we are planning on commencing construction on a second project that would be a l00 MW solar fann late this year. The l00 MW solar fann has a construction cost ofapproximately $200 million. The construction costs provide a direct and indirect benefit to the local economy. Further, we believe that the termination of the EAS may be in violation of the National Environmental Policy Act and contrary to the department's principle ofEnvironme1Hal Justice. "Each Federal agency shall make achieving environmentaljusticepart of its mission by identij}·ing and addressing.

. .. disproportionately high and adverse

... environmental effects of itsprograms . .. on**minori~v**

### population.·· We, therefore, requestfor you to rescind the Tentative Orderbecause to tenninate the EAS would disproportionately impact Imperial County's minority population by eliminatingtheir opportunityto having adequate means ofairtravel and severely handicap the local economy.

5455 Wilshire Blvd. Suite 1010. Los Angcks. CA !J003o 1 (323)525-ll'lOO tFax: (3101424-71111 www,8minutcncrgy.com207 West Legion Road, Brawley, CA 9?227 voice 760.35! .333J fax 760.344.4401

June 30, 2014
SecretaryAnthony Foxx U.S. Department ofTransportation 1200 NewJersey Avenue, SE**Washin~ton,** DC 20590 PearSecretary Foxx, Iwrite to express my disappointment with the DepartmentofTransportation's ("DOT") Final Orderto terminatethe Essential AirService (EAS) program at Imperial CountyAirport ("IPL") located in El Centro, California in Imperial County. I urge you to consider the negative economic impacts that will occur in our local marketas a result ofthe proposed termination ofthe program and ourcommercial air service. Imperial CountyAirport ("IPL"} has atremendoustrack record ofsurpassing the EAS programs daily enplanementrequirement established bythegovernment, as they have dramatically exceeded the enplanement minimum overthe last decade. Unfortunately, in FY 2013, IPL had a majordisruption to its service as United Express discontinued its link to LAX and Seaport Airlines replaced the operation with flights toSan Diego and Burbank. This disruption led to IPL falling slightly belowtheten daily enplanementthreshold, reaching 

### 9.5 enplanements for the firsttime: Key to the newairlines success is developing

### a brand in the marketand importantagreements with airlines that support smooth connections of passengers and bags at San Diego and Burbank. Seaport has been working hard to.promote itsservice in the Imperial market and establish important relationships with other carriers to maximize connectionsfortravelers. The Essential AirService program was developed to guarantee small communities, like Imperial County, continue to be served by certificated air carriers and have access to the National Transportation System. As you evaluate theWaiver phase ofthe EAS evaluation process, I urge you to seriously consider Imperial County/EI Centro Airport'strack record overthe last decade.I/We requestthatyou grant our airportthe much needed waiver it deserves to prove itcan successfully and effectively utilize the EAS subsidy to supportthe critical airservice our market needs. Thank you foryourtiine and consideration ofmy request.

larry Lewis, CEo· .Pioneers Memorial Hospital LL/eb

Personally. \Ve C,He For YouJune 26,2014 

### Secretary Anthony Foxx U.S. Department ofTransportation 1200 

### New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 Dear Secretary Foxx, Iwrite to express my disappointment with the Department ofTransportation's ("DOT") Final Order to terminate the Essential Air Service (EAS) program at Imperial County Airport ("IPL'') located in El Centro, California in Imperial County. I urge you to · considerthe negative economic impacts that will occur in our local market as a result of the proposed termination ofthe program and our commercial air service. Imperial County Airport ("IPL") has a tremendous track record ofsurpassing the EAS programs daily enplanement requirernent established by the government, as they have dramatically exceeded the enplanement minimum over the last decade. Unfortunately, in FY 2013, IPL had a major disruptionto its service as United Express discontinued its link to LAX and Seaport Airlines replaced the operation with flights to San Diego and Burbank. This disruption ledto IPL falling 

### slightlybelow the ten daily enplanement threshold, reaching 9.5 enplanements for the first time. Key to the new airlines success is developing a brand in the market and important agreements with airlines that support smooth connections ofpassengers and bags at San Diego and Burbank. Seaporthas been working hard to promote its service in the Imperial market and establish importantrelationships with other carriers to maximize connections for travelers. This Air Service program is essential to our area in that we use it frequently to assist us in providing safety net medical services along the border areas in the dese11 of California. This was developed to guarantee small communities, like In1perial County, ability to continue the service by certificated air carriers and have access to the National Transportation System. As you evaluate the Waiver phase ofthe EAS evaluation process, I urge you to grant Otlr airport the much needed waiver it 

### deserves to prove it can successfully and effectively utilize the EAS subsidy to support the critical air service ourmarket needs. Thank you for your time and consideration ofmy request.

ChiefExecutive Officer

# ~ fOODBANK

May 9, 2014 329 Applestill Road • El Centro, CA 92243 (760) 370-0966 • info@ivfoodbank.org



### Secretary Anthony Foxx U.S. Department ofTransportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington,'DC 20590 RE: Docket DOT-OST-2008-0299 Dear Secretary Foxx; I write to express my concerns with the Department ofTransportation's Tentative Order to terminate the Essential Air Service (EAS) program in El Centro, California located in Imperial County. I urge you to consider the negative economic impacts that may occur as a result of the proposed termination ofthe program. The Imperial County Airport has a tremendous track record ofsurpassing the EAS program requirements put forth by the government, as they have dramatically exceeded the· enplanement minimum in four ofthe last five fiscal years. Unfortunately, in FY 2013, the Imperial County Airport barely fell below the ten enplanement threshold, by reaching 9.5 enplanements for the first time due to the change in the mandated air carrier that occurred in 2013. There are extenuating circumstances that have led to the decline in enplanements. The uncertainty ofthe air carrier change from United based SkyWest to Seaport Airlines, which occurred in May of2013, has been a difficult and unpopular transition. The change in timing (SkyWest service was extended for two months after its original announcement) in aircraft carriers and the learning curve for local user ofthe airport to transition to purchasing tickets from a system that was not linked to any major aircraft.carrier was cumbersome and unfortunate. To this day, those who fly from Imperial to San Diego have to leave the commuter terminal and go through security again before they can fly to their real destinations. Many local people have simply opted notto use this service. The uncertainty ofthe timing needed between flights is too risky to leave it to chance. Ifthe Imperial County community had never had SkyWest previously, and known the convenience offlying directly to LAX with the ease of changing planes to anywhere in the world, then Seaport might be an adequate airline.
It is my understanding that your office made the decision to change from SkyWest to Seaport Airlines as the mandated carrier at the Imperial County Airport. It is unfair that less than one year after that decision was made, our local community and economy are being punished for this decision by a threat to discontinue service. We are a resilient community and we will adjust

1

# ~ fOOD BANK 329 Applestill Road • El Centro, CA 92243 (760) 370-0966 • info@ivfoodbank.org 

### to Seaport airlines, but we will need more time to raise the .5 enplanements needed foryour criteria. The El Centro Airport is crucial to a number of key industries in Imperial County. The alternative energy market is essential to the economic growth ofthe county. Our solar, wind and geothermal facilities are visited frequently by the national corporation representatives that run these facilities and those who are interested in building more facilities in 

## a county blessed · with 360 days of sunshine a year. Our agricultural community represents 33% ofour county's economic engine. Key leaders form the Ag industry serve on elected boards and committees both in Sacramento and Washington and need the ability to get to those places quickly and efficiently. Many Imperial County residents are important leaders in their fields. Education, Government, Medical and non-profit leaders, like myself, require the abilityto get to Sacramento an_d national conference locations without adding an extra day oftravel on to the front and back ends oftrips.

. The Imperial County houses one ofthe strategic training facilities for Homeland Security's Border Patrol and operates from that base a large patrol area along the Mexican Border. The Naval Air Facility El Centro is also a strategic training facility for aircraft carrierfighter pilots and helicopter training. The elimination ofthe Imperial County Airport would affect other government bureaus and departments in very negative ways.

.As you know, the Essential Air Service was put into place to guarantee that small communities, including those within the Imperial County, continue to be served by certificated air carriers. Over the last several years, Imperial County has experienced the highest unemployment rate in the nation. Our federal government should encourage economic growth, and consider all factors before terminating a much-needed program in the region. As you prepare the Final Order, I urge you to consider the Imperial Valley's track record over the last five fiscal years, and askthat you consider the void that will be left'should the Department ofTransportation ultimately decide to terminate the much-needed Essential Air Service program currently in effect at the Imperial County Airport. It is truly essentiaL Thank you for your time and consideration of my request. Sincerely,

.

# t:r~ Sara Griffen Executive Director Imperial Valley Food Bank 2

# lmpBtial VaiiRy 

# RBgional Occupational Ptogtarn

PreparingStl!delttsForWork: lfs OurBusiness 

### May 8, 2014 Secretary AnthonyFoxx 687 State Street • El Centro, California 92243 (760) 482-2600 • Fax (760) 482-2750 www.ivrop.org



### US Department ofTransportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590

RE: Docket DOT-OST-2008-0299 Dear Secretary Foxx, Edwin 

### P. Obergfell SuperiJtfeftdettt



### I write to express my concerns with the Department of Transportation's Tentative Order to terminate the Essential Air Service (EAS) program in El Centro, Califomia located in Imperial CounLy. I urge you to consider the negative economic impacts that may occur as a result ofthe proposed termination ofthe program. The Imperial County Airpoti has a tremendous track record of surpassing the EAS program reqitirements put forth by the government, as they have dramatically exceeded the enplanement minimum in four ofthe last five fiscal years. Unfortunately, in FY 2013, the lniperial County Airport barely fell below the ten enplanement threshold, by reaching 9.5 enplanements for the first time. As you know, the Essential Air Service was put into place to guarantee that small comn:mnities including those ·within the Imperial County, continue to be served by certificated air carriers. Over the last several years: Imperial County has experienced the highest tmeinployment rate in the nation. Our federal govenm1ent should encourage economic growth, and consider all factors before terminating a much-needed program inregion. As ynu prepare the Final Order, I urge you to consider the Imperial Valley's track record over the last three fiscal years, and ask that you consider the void that will be left should the Department of Transportation ultimately decide to terminate the much-needed Essential Air Service

.program currently m effect at the Imperial County Airport. Thank: you for your time and consideration ofmy request.

AccreditedbyWesternAssociation ofSchools andCo/leges

# u~ 

# of & VISITORS BUREAU 

### SecretaryAnthonyFoxx U.S. Department ofTransportation 1200 NewJerseyAvenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 Dear SecretaryFoxx, 1095 South 4th Street Post Office Box 3006 E! Centro, CA 92244

- 3006 (760) 352-3681 Fax (760) 352-3246



## I write to express my disappointment with the Department ofTransportation's ("DOT") Final Orderto terminate the Essential AirService (EAS) program at Imperial CountyAirport ("IPL") located in El Centro, California in Imperial County. I urge you to consider the negative economic impacts that will occur in our local market as a result ofthe proposedtermination ofthe program and our commercial air service. Imperial County Airport ("IPL") has a tremendous trackrecord ofsurpassingthe EAS programs daily enplanementrequirement established bythe government, as theyhave dramatically exceededthe enplanement minimum overthe lastdecade. Unfortunately, inFY2013, IPL had a major disruption to its service as United Express discontinued its linkto LAX and SeaportAirlines replaced the operation with flights to SanDiego and Burbank. This disruption led to IPL falling 

### slightlybelow the ten daily enplanementthreshold, reaching 9.5 enplanements for the first time. Key to the new airlines success is developing abrand in the market and important agreements with airlines that support smooth connections ofpassengers and bags at San Diego and Burbank. Seaport has been working hard to promote its service inthe Imperial market and establish importantrelationships with other carriers to maximize connections for travelers. The Essential Air Service program was developed to guarantee small communities, like Imperial County, continue to be served by certificated air carriers and have access to theNational Transportation System. As you evaluate the Waiverphase ofthe EAS evaluation process, I urge youto seriously consider Imperial County/El Centro Airport's track record over the last decade. I!We requestthat you grant our airport the much needed waiver it deserves to prove it can successfully and effectivelyutilize theEAS subsidyto support the critical air service ourmarket needs. Thank you for yourtime and consideration ofmy request. 

# t\ \\

Jaime Honold President, Board ofDirectors



## "Where the Sun Spends the vVinter"® www.e!centrochamber.com

# u~ 

# erof mmerce & 

### VISITORS BUREAU 

### SecretaryAnthony Foxx U.S. Department ofTransportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 Dear Secretary Foxx, 1095 South 4th Street Post Office Box 3006 El Centro, CA 92244-3006 (760) 352-3681 Fax (760) 352-3246



### I write to express my disappointment with the Department ofTransportation's ("DOT") Final Order to terminate the Essential Air Service (EAS) program at Imperial County Airport ("IPL") located in El Centro, California in Imperial County. I urge you to consider the negative economic impacts thatwill occur in our local market as aresult ofthe proposed termination ofthe program and our commercial air service. Imperial CountyAirport ("IPL") has a tremendous trackrecord ofsurpassing the EAS programs daily enplanement requirement established bythe government, as theyhave dramatically exceededthe enplanement minimum overthe last decade. Unfortunately, in FY 2013, IPL had a major disruption to its service as UnitedExpress discontinued its linkto LAX and SeaportAirlines replaced the operation with flights to SanDiego and Burbank. This disruption led to IPL falling 

### slightlybelowthe ten daily enplanementthreshold, reaching 9.5 enplanements for the first time. Keyto the new airlines success is developing abrand in the marketand important agreements with airlines that support smooth connections ofpassengers and bags at San Diego and Burbank. Seaporthas been workinghard to promote its service in the Imperial market and establish importantrelationships with other carriers to maximize connections for travelers. The EssentialAir Service program was developed to guarantee small communities, like Imperial County, continue to be served by certificated air carriers and have access to theNational Transportation System. As you evaluate the Waiverphase ofthe EAS evaluation process, I urge you to seriously consider Imperial County/El Centro Airport's trackrecord overthe last decade. I!We requestthat you grant our airport the muchneeded waiver it deserves to prove it can successfully and effectivelyutilize the EAS subsidyto supportthe critical air service ourmarket needs. Thank you for your time and consideration ofmyrequest;

# ~-- DarlettaD. Willis ChiefExecutive Officer



## "Where the Sun Spends the tVinter"® www.etcentrochamber.com

### CALEXICO 

## Chamber

## OfCommerce June 30, 2014
SecretaryAnthonyFoxx U.S. Department ofTransportation 1200NewJerseyAvenue, SE Washington; DC 20590 DearSecretaryFoxx, I writeto expressmy disappointment with theDepartment ofTransportation's ("DOT'') Final Orderto terminatetheEssential 

### Air Service (EAS) program at Imperial CountyAirport ("IPL") located inEl Centro, CaliforniainImperial County. Iurgeyouto considerthenegative economic impacts thatwill occurin ourlocal market a<; a resultoftheproposedtermination oftheprogram and our commercial air service. Jniperial County Airport ('•IPL") has a tremendoustrackrecord ofsurpassing theEAS programs daily enplanementrequirementestablishedbythe government, astheyhave dramatically exceededthe enplanementminimumoverthelastdeCade. Unfortunately, inFY 2013, IPLhada majordisruption to its service as United Express discontinuedits linkto LAX and SeaportAirlinesreplaced the operation with flights to SanDiego and Burbank. This disruption ledto IPLfalling slightlybelowthe ten daily enplanementthreshold, reaching 9.5 enplanements forthe first time. Keyto thenew airlines successis developing a brandinthemarket and important agreementswith airlines that support smoothconnections ofpassengers andbags at SanDiego andBurbank. Seaporthas been wo:ddng hardtopromoteits serviceintheImperialmarketandestablishimportantrelationShips with othercarrierstomaximizeconnectionsfor travelers. TheEssential Air Serviceprogr1Wl was developedto guarantee small communities, like Imperial County, continueto be servedby certificated air carriers andhave accesstothe National TranSportation System. Asyou evaluatetheWaiverphase oftheEAS evaluationprocess, I urgeyouto seriou5ly consider Imperial County/El Centro Airport'strackrecord overthe lastdecade.I!Werequestthatyougrantour airport themuchneeded waiverit deserves to prove itcan successfully andeffectively utilizetheEAS subsidyto supportthe critical air service ourmarketneeds.

Cc: BoardFile

1100 Imperial Avenue ·P. 0. Box 948 ·Calexico. CA 92231 · (760) 357-1166 · (760) 562-4435 •calexicochamber@hotmail.com 

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# ...May 8, 2014

Secretary Anthony Foxx U.S. Department ofTransportation 1200 NewJersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590

RE: Docket DOT-OST-2008-0299

Dear Secretary Foxx, I writeto express my deep concerns with the Department ofTransportation's Tentative Order to terminate the Essential Air Service (EAS) program in El Centro, California located in Imperial County. I urge you to considerthe negative economic impacts that may occur as a result ofthe proposed termination ofthe program. The Imperial County Airport has atremendous track record ofsurpassing the EAS program requirements put forth by the government, as they have dramatically exceeded the enplanement minimum in four ofthe last five fiscal years. Unfortunately, in FY 2013, the Imperial County Airport barelyfell belowthe ten enplanementthreshold, by reaching 9.5 enplanements forthe first time. As you know, the Essential Air Service was put into place to guarantee that small communities, including those within the Imperial County, continue to be served by certificated air carriers. Over the last several years, Imperial County has experienced the highest unemployment rate in thenation. Our federal government should encourage economic growth, and consider all factors before terminating a much-needed program in the region. As you prepare the Final Order, I urge you to consider the Imperial Valley's track record overthe last three fiscal years, and ask that you consider the void that will be left should the Department bfTransportation ultimately decide to terminatethe much-needed Essential Air Service program currently in effect at the Imperial County Airport.

Thank you foryour time and consideration of my request on behalfofthe entire County of Imperial.

Sincerely, Gregory Siota Chief Executive Officer Imperial Chamber ofCommerce

### --·--·------·--·--------------- 101 WEST fiFTH STREE"i" •**HOLTV!I~LE,** C'A 92250 • (760) 356·2823 • FAX {:foOl 358-2925 

### SecretaryAnthony Foxx

_ U.S. DepartmentofTransportation 1200

### NewJerseyAvenue, SE 

### Washington, DC 20590 Dear SecretaryFoxx, I 

### write to express my

### disappointmentwith the Department ofTransportation's ("DOT') Final 

### Orderto 

### terminate the Essential 

### Air Service (EAS) program at Imperial

### CountyAirport ("IPL") located

### in El Centro,. CaliforniainImperial County. Iuige youto considerthe negative economicimpacts

### thatwill occurin ourlocal marketas a result oftheproposedtermination of the program

### and ourcommercial air 

### service. Imperial County Airport ("IPL") has a tremendous trackrecord ofsurpassingthe EAS programs daily enplanementrequirement established by

### the government, as they have dramatically exceededthe enplanementminimum overthe lastdecade. Unfortunately, in

### FY2013, IPL hada majordisruptionto its service as UnitedExpress discontinued its 

### linkto LAXand Seaport Airlinesreplacedthe operationwith

### flightsto 

### SanDiego and Burbank. This disruptionledto

### IPL falling

### slightly

### belowthe ten daily enplanementthreshold, reaching9.5 enplanements forthe first 

### time. Key to

### the newairlines success isdeveloping a brand 

### inthe

### marketandimportant agreements withairlinesthat 

### support smoothcoimections ofpassengers andbags atSanDiegoand

### Burbank. Seaporthas 

### been working hardtopromote its 

### service in

### theImperialmarket andestablish importantrelationships with other carriers to maximize connectionsfor travelers. The Essential 

### AirServiceprogram was developedto guarantee 

### small communities, likeImperial. County, continue to be served by

### certificated air

### carriers and 

### have access totheNational Transportation System. As

### you·evaluate theWaiverphase oftheEAS evaluationprocess, Iurge youto seriouslyconsiderImperial County/El CentroAirport'strackrecord overthe lastdecade. I requestthat

### you grant ourairportthemuchneeded waiver itdeserves toproveit can successfully and 

### effectively utilizethe EAS 

### subsidyto supportthe critical air serviceourmarketneeds. Thank

### you for yourtime and considerationofmy request. 

## / 

# r-. ,-.,i:'If6 J:
. •J J**~** I If-1/..**,f-.~~:!:~-** C -'/.Ai!tri'ic;;n.. f"lr.e:W;ui'l/

- Ju.t-4**~** .Z<>I;J**~..{~"-..;** r if '**~** ......**,<~·~·~~J** THE CARROT {',\.**~** CAPITAL**~·..,. ~**  -1

### /<._,~\ OFTHE ,f**~** WORLD 

### I)**~**July 2, 2014

TheHonorableAnthonyFoxx Secretary ofTranspmtation U.S. Department ofTransportation 1200 NewJersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 Dear Mr. Secretary: I write on behalfoftheBurbank-Glendale-PasadenaAirport Authority ("BGPAA'') to express our disappointment with the Department ofTransportation's Final Orderterminating the Essential Air Service ("EAS"} subsidy at Imperial County Airport ("IPL") inEl Centro, California. TheBGPAAmges you to considerthe entirety offPL's history in the EAS program. IPL has

## a tremendous trackrecord ofsurpassingthe EAS program's dailyenplanement requirement, having dramaticallyand consistently exceeded the enplanementminimum overthe last decade. Unfottunately, in FY 2013, IPL had a majordisruptionto its service becauseUnited Express discontinued operations to LAX. Although Seaport Airlines replacedthatoperation with flights to Bob Hope Airport in Burbankandto SanDiego International Airport, this disruption led toIPL falling 

### slightly below the ten daily enplanement tlu·eshold, reaching 

### 9.5 enplanements for thefirst time. Key to any new airline's success is development ofa brand inthemarket andexecution ofinterline agreements with other air carriers to facilitate smooth connections ofpassengers and bags. Seaporthas been working extremely hard to promote its service in the Imperial Cmmty market and to consummate contracts with other air canierstomaximize connections for travelers atBobHope Airp01t and San Diego International Airpoti. As you know, the EAS programwas developedto ensurethat small communities, like Imperial County, continueto be served by cettificated air carriers and have accessto theNational Transpottation System. When you evaluate IPL's waiver application, the BGPAAurges youto give significantweightto IPL's track record overthe last decade. We respectfullyrequestthatyou grant IPL a waiver sothat itcan continue its remarkably successful utilization ofthe EAS subsidy to suppmtthe critical air service thatthe Imperial County marketneeds. Thank you for yourtime and consideration ofourrequest.

### Sin~ereJ?, 

# . c._ - f/?

# /cf~/~~·**~** A**"'ifa.~** Feger Executive Director ·

cc: Commissioners, Burbank-Glendale-PasadenaAirportAuthority.

2627 Hollywood Way • Burbank, California 91505 " (818) 840-8840 • Fax: (818) 848-1173

## SAN DIEGO COUNTY REGIONAL AIRPORT AUTHORITY
P.O. BOX 82776. SAN DIEGO. CA 92138-2776 619.400.2400 "w'W\1/.SAN.ORG 

### July 7, 2014 SecretaryAnthony Foxx U.S. Department ofTransportation 

### 1200 NewJerseyAvenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 DearSecretary Foxx: I write to express 

### my regretwith the Department ofTransportation's ("DOT") Final Ordertoterminate the Essential AirService (EAS) program at Imperial CountyAirport ("IPL") located in El Centro, California. Iurge you to consider a waiverfor Imperial given its strong historical enplanementfigures and its recent unique economic circumstances. Imperial CountyAirport ("IPL") has aconsistently strong track record ofsurpassing the EAS program's daily enplanement requirement established by the government. IPL has dramaticallyexceeded the enplanement minimum ov&rthe last decade. Regrettably, due to the recession and issues related to the transition to anew EAS provider,**en~lanements** 

### have fallen 

### slightlybelowthe ten dailyenplanementthreshold, reaching 9.5 enplanernents perday for the firsttime. We believe there will be improvement in the enplanement numbers for Imperial in the coming year. Itwould be**re~rettable** 

### if EAS funding were discontinuedjust as the newservice began to grow and stimulate the market. Seaport has been working hard to promote its service in the Imperial market and establish important relationships wilh othercarriers to maximize connections fortravelers. Several factors argue in favorofawaiverfor Imperial:
• Imperial was extremely hard-hit bythe recession, in fact its unemployment rate was among the highest in the nation during this period. The factthat itwas able to maintain the mostenplanements ofthe EAS markets in question during aperiod ofextreme economic hardship is laudable. • The airline that has invested in the San Diego- Imperial route has taken concrete steps to increase ridership including upgrades to its reservation system and conclusion of interline agreements. The total anticipated benefits from these upgradesto the Imperial route have notyet been realized. IFL is exactlythe historically strong marketthe Essential AirService program was developed to help nurture. Itis essential that Imperial Countycontinue to be served by SeaportAirlines and have access to the National Tansportation System. As you evaluate the waiver phase ofthe EAS evaluation process, Iurge you to seriously consider IPL's track record overthe last decade. We request you grant Imperial awaiverso that itcan continue to electively utilize the EAS subsidy. We lookforward to afavorable response from the department in the coming v.eeks.- ·

lllella F. Bowens Resident I

### CEO Sln Diego County Regional AirportAuthority 

## SAN DIEGO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT207 West Legion Road, Brawley, CA 92227 voice 760.35!.3333 fax 760.344-4401 

### He.ab.ka.reDistrict

June 30, 2014
Secretary Anthony Foxx U.S. Department ofTransportation 1200 NewJerseyAvenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 Dear Secretary Foxx, Iwrite to express my disappointmentwith the DepartmentofTransportation's ("DOT") Final Orderto terminate the Essential AirService (EAS) program at Imperial CountyAirport ("IPL") located in El Centro, California in Imperial County. I urge you to considerthe negative economic impacts thatwill. occur in our local marketas a result ofthe proposed termination ofthe program and ourcommercial air service. Imperial CountyAirport ("IPL") has a tremendoustrack record ofsurpassing the EAS programs daily enplanement requirement established bythe government, as they have dramatically exceeded the enplanement minimum overthe last decade. Unfortunately, in FY 2013, IPL had a majordisruptionto its service as United Express discontinued its link to 

### LAX and Seaport Airlines replaced the operation with flights toSan Diego and Burbank. This disruption led to IPL falling slightlybelowtheten daily enplanement threshold, reaching 9.5 enplanements for the firsttime. Key to the newairlines success is developing a brand in the marketand important agreements with airlines that support smooth connections of passengers and bags at San Diego and Burbank. Seaport has been working hard to promote its service in the Imperial market and establish important relationships with other carriers to maximize connectionsfortravelers. The Essential Air Service program was developed to guarantee small communities, like Imperial County, continueto be served by certificated air carriers and have access to the National Transportation System. As you evaluate theWaiver phase ofthe EAS evaluation process, I urge you to seriously consider Imperial County/EI Centro Airport'strack record overthe last decade. 1/We requestthatyou grant.our airportthe much needed waiver itdeserves to prove itcan successfully and effectively utilize the EAS subsidy to supportthe critical air service our market needs. Thank you foryourtime and consideration ofmy request.

Larry Lewis, CEO Pioneers Memorial Hospital LL/eb

Personally, \'Ve Care For You

## IMPERIAL VAllEY COLLEGE Serving Imperial County PO Box 158, Imperial, CA 92251-0158 760.355.6219

July 3, 2014 Secretary Anthony Foxx Phone 760.355.6219 Fax 760.355.6461' www.imperial.edu

U.S. Department of Transportation 

### 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 

### 20590 · Dear Secretary Foxx, Imperial Community College District Board ofTrustees Jerry D. Hart Karla A. Sigmond Rudy Cardenas, 'Jr. Romua!do J. Medina

Steven M. Taylor Louis Wong Juanita Salas superintendent/President Victor**~1.** Jaime, Ed.D. victor.jaime@imperial.edu

I write to express my disappointment with the Department ofTransportation's ("DOT"} Final Order to terminate the Essential Air Service (EAS) program at Imperial County Airport ("IPL") located in El Centro, California in Imperial County. I urge you to consider the negative economic impacts that wiil occur in our local market as a result ofthe proposed termination ofthe program and our commercial air service. Imperial County Airport ("IPL") has a tremendous track record of surpassing the EAS programs daily enplanement requirement established by the government, as they have dramatically exceeded the enplanement minimum over the lastdecade. Unfortunately, in FY 

### 2013, IPL had a major disruption to its service as United Express discontinued its link to LAX and Seaport Airlines replaced the operation with flights to San Diego and Burbank. This disruption led to IPLfalling slightly below the ten daily enplanement threshold, reaching 

### 9.5 enplanements forthe first time. Key to the riew airlines success is developing a brand in the market and important agreements with airlines that support smooth connections of passengers and bags at San Diego and Burbank. Seaport has been working hard to promote its service in the Imperial market and establishimportant relationships with other carriers to maximize connections for travelers, The Essential Air Service program was developed to guarantee small communities, like Imperial County·,· continue to be served by certificated air carriers and have access

# to the National Transportation System. As you evaluate the Waiver phase of**~he** EAS evaluation process, I urge you to seriously consider Imperial County/EI Centro Airport's track reGard over the last decade. INVe request that you grant our airportthe much needed waiver it deserves to prove it can successfully and effectively utilize the EAS subsidy to support the critical air service our market needs. Thank you for your time and consideration of my request. Should you have any questions, please contact me at 

### 760-355-6219. Sincerely,

Viet

. 

### ::J 

# rrn'', Ed. D. Superint tiPresident of Imperial Valley College

# PERIAL UNTY FICE OF 

# DUCATION 1398 SPERBER ROAD • EL CENTRO. CALIFORNIA 92243 • (760) 312-6464 • FAX (760) 312-6565 ANNE 

## J. MALLORY SUPERINTENDENT May 7, 2014 Secretary Anthony Foxx U.S.Department ofTransportation 1200 NewJersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 · RE: DocketDOT -OST-2008-0299 Dear Secretary Foxx, Anne J Mallory. Superintendent

Iwrite to express my concerns withthe Department ofTransportation's Tentative Orderto terminate the Essential Air Service (BAS) program inEl Centro, California located in Imperial County. Iurgeyou to considerthe negative economic impacts that may occur as a result ofthe proposed termination ofthe program. The Imperial CountyAirport has a tremendoustrackrecord ofsurpassing the EAS program requirements put forth by the government, as they have dramatically exceeded the enplanement minimum in four ofthe last five fiscal years. Unfortunately, in FY 2013, the Imperial CountyAirportbarely fell belowthe ten enplanementthreshold, by reaching 

### 9:5 enplanements for thefirst time. As you know, the Essential Air Service was put into placeto guarantee that small communities, including those within the Imperial County, continue to be served by certificated air carriers. Overthe last several years, Imperial County has experienced the highestunemploymentrate in the nation. Ourfederal government should encourage economic growth, and consider all factors before terminating a muchneeded program in the region. As you preparethe Final Order, I urge you to consider the Imperial Valley's trackrecord overthe last three fiscal years, and askthatyou considerthe void thatwill be left should theDepartment of Transportationultimately decide to terminate the much-needed Essential Air Service program currently in effect at the Imperial CountyAirport.· Thank you for yourtime and consideration ofmy request. Sincerely,

Sharon Anderholt Alicia Armenta CountyBoardofEducation Sabrina C. Barber Annette Buttner Susan E. Manger**Ma~** 09 2014 9:04PM US POSTAL#SERVICE



## " May 9, 2014 SecretaryAnthony Foxx U.S. Department ofTransportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 RE: DocketDOT·OST-2008..0299 Dear Secretary Foxx, I write to**~xpress** my concerns withthe Department ofTransportation'sTentative Order to tenn!nate,

## me Essential Air Service (EAS) program inEl Centro, Californialocated in Imperial County. I urge you ro consider the negative economic impacts that may occur as aresult ofthe proposed termination oftheprogram,, The Imperial County Airport has a tremendous track record ofsurpassing the EAS program requirements putforth by the government, as they have dramatically exceededthe enplanement minimum infour ofthe last .five fiscal years. Unfortunately, lnFY 2013, the Imperial County Airport barely fell below the ten enplanementthreshold, by reaching 9.5 enpianements for 1he first time. As you know, the Essential Air Service was putinto place to guarantee that small communities, including those within the Imperial County, continue to be served bycertificated air**~arriers.** Overthe last several years, Imperial County has experienced the highest unemployment rate in the nation. Ourfederal government should encourage economic growth, and consider all factors before termlnafing amuch-needed program in the region. As you prepare the Final Order, Iurge you 

### to consider the Imperial Valley's track record over the IaBtthree fiscal years, and ask that you considerthe void that will beJeft should the Department ofTransportation ultimately decide to tenninate the much-needed Essential Air Service program currently in effect at the Imperial County Airport. Thankyou for yourtime and consideration ofmy request.

## Since~ly, 

## rJ,... 0

## ~

## \.~L~tli...CJ.LL,- 1l DiahnaGarda-Ruiz · U Board Member, Heber Public Utility District

# Heber Public Utility 

# District

May 23,2014

Secretary Anthony Foxx 1078 Dogwood Rd., Suite 103 • P. 

### 0. Box H Heber, CA 92249 TEL (760) 482-2440 • FAX (760) 353-9951 www.heber.ca.gov



### U.S. Department ofTransportation 1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 RE: Docket DOT-OST 2008-0299 Dear Secretary Foxx; Heber Public Utility District serves residents and businesses in the community of Heber in the Imperial County. As elected officials of this Special District, the Board unanimously decided to authorize this letter written in opposition to the Department of Transportations' Tentative Ordertoterminatethe Essential AirServices (EAS) program in El Centro, California located in Imperial County. We urge you to consider the negative economic impacts that may occur as a result ofthe proposed termination ofthe program. The Essential Air Service was put into place to guarantee that small communities, including those like Heber, continue to be served by certificated air carriers. Over the past several years the Imperial County has experience some of the highest unemployment rates in the nation, and the community of Heber is considered a severely disadvantage community according to the State standards. We need more jobs and economic benefits, and we urge you to consider the impacts to families in the Imperial County, and ask that you consider the void that will be left should the Department of Transportation ultimately decide to terminate the Essential Air Service program in the Imperial County. On behalf of the Heber Public Utility District Board of Directors, we thank you for your time and consideration ofour request. Sincerely,

# ~~~ General Manager Cc: HPUD Board Senator Hueso



### Heber Public Utility District is an equal opportunityproviderand employerMay 12,2014 

# I

IMPERIAL COUNTY TRANSPORTATION COMMISSION 1405 N. IMPERIAL AVE., SUITE I

EL CENTRO, CA 92243-2875 PHONE: (760) 592-4494

FAX: (760) 592-4497

The Honorable AnthonyFoxx, Secretary U.S. DepartmentofTransportation 1200NewJersey Avenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 RE: Docket DOT-OST-2008-0299 Dear Secretary Foxx, On behalfofthe Imperial County Transportation Commission, I write to request reconsideration ofthe Department of Transportations' Tentative Orderto terminate the Essential Air Service (EAS) program in E1 Centro, California located in Imperial County. Please consider the negative economic impacts that may occur as a result of the proposed termination ofthe program. The Imperial County Airport has a tremendous track record ofsurpassing the EAS program requirements putforth by the government, as they have dramatically exceeded the enplanement minimum in four ofthe last five fiscal years. Unfortunately, in FY 2013, the Imperial County Airport barely fell below the ten enplanementthreshold, by reaching 9.5 enplanementsfor the first time. As you know, the Essential Air Service was put into place to guarantee that small communities, including those within the Imperial County, continueto be served bycertified air carriers. Over the last several years, Imperial Countyhas and continues to experience one ofthe highest unemployment rates in the nation. It is also importantto note that 23% of our County population lives below the poverty level (U.S. Census Bureau, 2012). The EAS program is vital to our economy, please consider all factors before terminating a much-needed program in the region.- As you prepare the Final Order, please also considerthe Imperial Valley's track record overthe lastthree fiscal years. Please consider the void that will be left should the Department ofTransportation ultimately decide to terminate the much-needed EAS program currently in effect atthe Imperial CountyAirport. Thankyou for your time and consideration ofmy request. Sincerely,

Executive Director

CITIES OF BRAWLEV, CALEXICO, CALIPATRIA, EL CENTRO, HOLTVILLE, IMPERIAL, WESTMORLAND, IMPERIAL

. IRRIGATION DISTRICT AND COUNTY OF IMPERIAL
T: Projects\lCTC Correspondence\support letter-EAS E! Centro

# liD

A

# centuryof service. May 14, 2014 Secretary Anthony Foxx U.S. Department ofTransportation 1200 New JerseyAvenue, SE Washington, DC 20590 Dear Secretary Foxx: 

### RE:**Dock~t** 

### DOT-OST-2008·0299 www.iid.com



### On behalf of Imperial Irrigation District, I write to express our concern with the Department of Transportation's Tentative Order to terminate the Essential Air Service program in El Centro, California. liD is the largest irrigation district in the nation and the third largest publicly owned power provider in the state of California. liD is a fiscally responsible public agency whose mission it is to provide reliable, efficient and affordably priced water and energy service to the communities we serve. The district is governed by an elected Board of Directors whose primary duty is to serve the public, and as a public-service agency, we urge you to give your highest consideration to this request. As you are already aware, the EAS program was put in place to guarantee that small communities, like Imperial County, continue to be served by certificated air carriers. Imperial County Airport has a record of surpassing the EAS program requirements by exceeded the enplanement minimum in four of the last five fiscal years. Unfortunately, in FY 2013, Imperial County Airport fell just short ofthe ten enplanement threshold for the first time. Before you finalize your order, we urge you to take into consideration the airport's positive track record over the last three years while also evaluating the negative economic and social impact to our local communities ifthe EAS program were to end. · Thank you for your consideration ofthe district'sviews on this matter. Sincerely,

Kevin E. Kelley General Manager
cc: Congressman Juan Vargas Congressman Raul Ruiz

IMPERIAL IRRIGATION DISTRICT • OPERATING HEADQUARTERS • P.O. BOX 937 • IMPERIAL, CA 92251