CITY OF TYLER

TYLER POUNDS REGIONAL AIRPORT

PROPOSAL

SMALL COMMUNITY AIR SERVICE

DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120

Tyler Pounds Regional Airport

700 Skyway Blvd., Ste. 201

Tyler, Texas 75704-6648

Davis Dickson,

Airport Manager

903-531-9825

PROJECT SPONSOR

City of Tyler

P.O. Box 2039

Tyler, Texas 75710-2039
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Page

I. Tyler Pounds Regional Airport and Its Service Area 2

A. RegionalDemographics,CatchmentArea,EconomicFuture 2

B. Air Serviceat TylerPoundsRegionalAirport 4

C. Airport OperatingBudget 5

D. CapitalImprovementPrograms 5

II. Evaluation of Air Service 6

A. Air FareSummary 6

B. ContributingFactors 8

C. NeedsandShortcomings 9

III. Air Service Development Action Plan 12

A. Air ServiceAction PlanMissionandObjectives 12

B. Programsof the PlanandOrganization 13

C. PlanImplementation 14

D. Compositionof Public/PrivatePartnership 16

E. Differencesfrom the PreviousGrant 16

IV. Action Plan Budget 17

A. FundingRequirements/Assurances 17

B. In-KindContributions 17

V. Accountability 18

A. ProgramMonitoring 18

B. AdjustmentPlan 19

VI. Conclusion 19
I. Tyler Pounds Regional Airport and Its Service Area

A. Regional Demographics, Catchment Area, Economic Future

Tyler Pounds Regional Airport serves a 21-county area in East Texas and is geographically

located:

AirportTYR

Dallas Fort Worth International (DFW)

George Bush Intercontinental (IAH)

Shreveport Regional Airport (SHV)

Mileage

115 miles

194 miles

105 miles

Currently our region is served by American Eagle with direct connections to Dallas/Fort Worth

International Airport (DFW) and United Airlines with direct service to George Bush

Intercontinental (IAH).

Tyler Pounds Regional Airport has a regional catchment area of over 1.1 million within a 75-mile

radius of the airport. The City of Tyler's population is approximately 100,000.

Population

Counties Population Median Age

(Years)

Smith 209,714 35.6

Anderson 58,458 39.1

Cherokee 50,845 37.4

Gregg 121,730 35.3

Henderson 78,532 42.8

Rains 10,914 45.8

Rusk 53,330 38.6

Upshur 39,309 40.5

Van Zandt 52,579 42.1

Wood 41,964 47.5

Kaufman 103,350 35.4

Harrison 65,631 37.4

Hopkins 35,161 38.8

Hunt 86,129 37.8

Titus 32,334 32.5

Morris 12,934 42.2

Panola 23,796 38.9

Marion 10,546 48.4

Camp 12,401 38.3

Franklin 10,605 42.1

Nacoadoches 64,524 29.8

Total 1,174,786 39.3

2010 US Census

2
Economy

Tyler Metropolitan Statistical Area (Smith County) has a diverse economy, which has helped it

remain strong despite a nation-wide slowdown in the economy. Tyler's diverse economy has

also helped unemployment rates to remain well below state and national averages. The Texas

Workforce Commission ranked the Tyler MSA as the third fastest market with new job growth in

Texas.

While the national economy is still sluggish, Tyler is actually one of the top ten performing

smaller cities according to the Milken Institute's ranking of metropolitan cities. This index

measures where jobs are being created, economies are growing and businesses are thriving.

Tyler is being recognized for being the healthcare hub of East Texas, high growth in

telecommunications and having a diversified economy.

Tyler, Texas, Smith County seat, is a regional center for manufacturing, retail, medical research,

education, and medical services. Major employers include medical care, grocery distribution, air

conditioning manufacturers and pipe casting. Tyler also is home to Texas College, Tyler Junior

College and the University of Texas at Tyler. The University of Texas at Tyler is also the fastest

growing campus in the University of Texas System. The following chart shows the 18 top

employers:

485

483

349

260--.J

USDA Meat Processmg

Cast Iron Pipe, Iron Fittings

._-- _._-

Air Conditioning Units

Engineering Contracting

~.Jlli.f.i.['1~ n

,John Soules Foods

Tyler Pipe

Carrier Corporation

CB&I

t Full.time equivalents

* Company has headquarters in Tyler, TX

Updated 7/10/13

.~

ITrinity Mother Frances* T

---

Medical Care 4,090

East Texas Medical Center* I Medical Care I, 3,238

:Brookshire Grocery Company* I

--~~._----

Grocery Distribution 2,522

Tyler Independent School District T Education 2,449

Wal-Mart Retail 1,711

The Trane Co.* I Air Conditioning Units

,

'I 1,500

Suddenlink* Cable, Internet, & Phone 1,500

The University of Texas at Tyler Education

,

I 1,094

---~-

UT Health Center at Tyler Medical Care/Research 865

Tyler Junior College I Education I

811 j

-'----- ---

Smith County I Government 776 1

City of Tyler II Government I 760 I

Target Distribution Center I

-- -- • m ••• m m __ • __ I

Retail Distribution 700 I

Southside Bank* I Banking Services 631 __I

---

I

3
B. Air Service at Tyler Pounds Regional Airport

Current Service

At the present time, Tyler Pounds Regional Airport is served by American Eagle Airlines and

United Airlines. American Eagle provides five flights a day to Dallas/Fort Worth Airport and

United Airlines provides three flights Monday through Friday and two flights on Saturday and

Sunday to Houston's George Bush Intercontinental Airport. Both American Eagle and United

flights are made on RJ 135, 140 & 145 aircraft with a seating capacity ranging from 37-50

passengers.

~~

TYLER POUNDS "U"" •••.•",.I'OI<T

Departures

UNITED II .~.._-,~....:, 5:30AM EVERYDAY

AmericanAirlines '"••. 6:00AM SUN - FRI

AmericanAirlines ~, 6:45AM SATURDAY

UNITEDn. ,~"'_ww"'C: 10:00 AM MON - FRI

AmericanAirlines "', 10:55 AM EVERYDAY

AmericanAirlines "tit. 1:20 PM EVERYDAY

UNITEDm. ._~w_w_{: 4:00 PM FRI "WED

American Airlines ""••. 4:20 PM EVERYDAY

American Airlines "'••... 6:00 PM SATURDAY

Ame.ricanAirlines " •••.. 7:00 PM SUN - FRI

Prior Service

Arrivals

UNITED E!' .....• _..•_.". 9:30 AM MON - FRI

AmericanAirlines "", 10:25 AM EVERYDAY

AmericanAirlines ",,- 12:50 PM EVERYDAY

UNITED D '-~"'~-';'~ 3:35 PM FRI-WED

AmericanAirlines ' ••• 3:50 PM EVERYDAY

AmericanAirlines ",,- 5:40PM SATURDAY

American Airlines " ••. 6:30 PM SUN - FRI

UNITED;'!. ._~,••••_.,," 7:50 PM SAT-SUN

AmericanAirlines " ••• 8:30 PM SATURDAY

AmericanAirlines ", 10:00 PM SUN - FRI

In 1998, Tyler Pounds Regional had four carriers offering air service. Continental Airlines flew

to Houston; American Eagle to DFW; Austin Express and Aspen Mountain Air flew to Austin.

That year Tyler Pounds Regional Airport experienced 73,034 enplanements and 5,799 actual

landings. Prior to September 11, 2001, Aspen Mountain Air filed for bankruptcy and suspended

all of its service within the state. Soon after, Austin Express stopped air service statewide.

Just after September 11, 2001, Continental Express announced that it would no longer fly to

Tyler. Service was suspended and American Eagle was the sole air carrier in Tyler.

Additionally, flights were very limited and air fares were very high due to one air carrier in Tyler.

In August, 2003, Continental Express began commercial air services to Tyler from Houston

again. Immediately enplanements increased and air fares began to be more competitive again.

In 2004 Tyler received a Small Community Air Service Development Grant totaling

$90,000. This Action Plan was immediately executed. Enplanements increased once

again as the Grant Program was underway. In 2005 Tyler experienced record boardings.

It should also be noted that Tyler utilized all Grant funds well before the two-year Grant

period ended. Tyler continued the Grant Program with newly adopted incentive

programs for increased air service and a somewhat limited advertising programs funded

by the airport.

4
c. Airport Operating Budget

City or t)'ler, Tens

Tyl<r Poond, Regloo.! Airport

OPff1lUjj~ and Fin:l.iiclal Summlll')'

For fhe Fl'ic:alYear ,f<:nded. September 30, 2012

Mt'olUllljle.1 Oprt'lil~ kC"'el'l_ ~ptftt!ll~ Elpnlln

1.LEldinEim S 6R.31) I.I~e~n~ S

2. TmtIin11t"lIUrrnltkmal .1t"~IItta mua1 OJotb::T cbq;e 90,000 Lo-.h~

3.,4.J1fO'l~ltJedQwm - f*fii

<c.FOO ~amrract ClI'spcr.mr-ap:mll:d -

5,CftllOaodhqu rcmll~ $4.771 Drpreci'l1011 t,2j1 •.4';'''

6..A';uinn fw!1tax rmined rnr !Ilrpnrt ~ -

7. FlItl saln nct prur~!1oss or fuel fiav.* m 46.177 "" I 4,6610640

!,,, ~I)' mm~lI"etnerI1 -

9. MiscellllnCCl'tl - RtpN"ilq\'tU I'~ch

IO.Oihtr l6,U~ I. nnnd proo:eedl I -

'rl'llil 325.106 2. Prnoced~ r-tcmloSlle(lr~ -

J, ~ ~Illcd eapic'l

=" •.. o\ntlnauflt.1 Optrttlai: Rnrnae •• ()(ha- ,. •.lI<l9.121

I.Lmdand~lXnhlcs ." rr*t.ill .'

l. To:l'Tlli=l. food .-lid b:-o~ 1);919

J. TtnTtl::W - Man stott:! ~ \'ur [.J:,pr:.dihlr~ IlW P'mjrrb

.4.,Tet1T1/IllJI-CChet 04).fj81 I.AirI1dd S

!.:R.l!:IW an 2)1):62 2. Tmnir •..d

6, :l"n!tjn2 ••94,009 l. Pmlinl;

7.lMhcdlM:oIr'Il &;'0' 4, Roldwa~s. ttil, and lnlaSlt

, ()(ha- 12.1,20 5.Ot.'torr 5.552.743

T•••, 9'62,.••19 T"" ,)..))Z. "

NilIi-OJWrj:ilrt;Iko"tlilli RtperfIIlI Yur Dr'bt PI)-meDts S

I. tn~ Inallne • tmMCled AM non-remicred 2.131

''"''''- 5.449.12' IId,btecbleu:at F..d .f"t:Sr

3.P~F.adlJIYCtwta 290.m J. Bernd, S

<,0= 2j6.01. How -

iT..., 5.993..764 " ""'" - •.., S -

OpuatitlJ £rptaW:t

I.Pmccael ~on am! bfc:e!iO 419,]0' ""A_ I.

2. ComrnunIc:Itiom and udUlfes 301,6&0

1 SlIJlplie!lar.dm~ ji2~}6 Rntfkttd "llI:lnc~1ADt'b

4.ltfpain and. aWntma::n 1:S5,«i9 I. R.csi:riCtddr!rtmvic:e r:s:n~ S

:1. QIMr~ ,="icc:s 191.6" 2.llntriCliocs Iiot ~llls JD.:lrqtlacemems

15.~.l:lDir::ft.and.settJ~ 19,1)!S 3. Other ~I$d (Inanria1 anm

,. MiJc:dltl'Jctu!l Tee.1

..""'"

145.209

T"" 1.'60. , l'nl'f'JfrWI~ 'l••MlaI An,b IIIC'kdiRa Cub < I. i!-J

D. Capital Improvement Programs

Past Projects

Tyler Pounds Regional Airport has

performed an aggressive Capital

Improvement Program over the past ten

years. Along with many airfield safety

and security projects, the airport opened

a new Commercial Air Service Terminal

on August 26, 2002, This facility is

capable of serving a growing commercial

aviation industry for the next twenty

years.

5

•
The City of Tyler "stayed the course" for this project through the terrible tragedies.of September

11, 2001. Construction was well underway when the attacks occurred in New York City,

Washington D.C., and Pennsylvania, yet City leaders chose to continue the project, knowing

that aviation would rebound.

This project was rated Number 2

with the citizens of East Texas as

one of the region's most important

projects. East Texas business and

leisure travelers have a strong

desire for a broader air service

program. The support for local

funding of the terminal project

reflects this desire. Furthermore,

the Federal Aviation Administration

supported this project beyond

expectations. Opening this new

facility was a big success.

Tyler Pounds Regional Airport enhanced

our passenger's travel experience in 2008

by adding two passenger boarding bridges.

Also in 2008, FAA awarded Tyler Pounds

Regional Airport the honor of being named

the 2007 Airport of the Year.

..q; -

Since then, many of the airport projects

have been focused to upgrade airfield

conditions including new runway safety

area enhancements, airport security

programs and planning to upgrade runway

4/22 to meet forecasted growth for the next

twenty years. This runway project recently

received a finding of no significant impact

resulting from the environmental assessment currently underway. This project will greatly

enhance this runway by extending the length, upgrading the pavement section for larger aircraft

and NAVAl OSfor improved capabilities in inclementweather.

II. Evaluation of Air Service

A. Air Fare Summary

In 2000, Wilbur Smith Associates completed a Small Market Air Service Needs Assessment for

the Texas Regional Air Service Task Force. A survey was conducted on air service needs for

the area. Respondents indicated that:

~ Reliable air service is crucial.

~ Having multiple gateway hubs is very important to area businesses.

~ Regional jet service is feasible once capture rates reach potential levels.

6
This study showed that Austin, Dallas, Houston-Intercontinental, Chicago and Atlanta were the

top five destinations for flights originating in Tyler. This study estimated that Tyler's potential

. enplanements were 84,000 annually if air market services were improved. At the time of

the study, Tyler had three providers.

Tyler presently has American Eagle and United Express as its sole air service providers. Air

Fares were recently researched from similar locations for American Eagle and United to various

major destinations. A comparison of the rates from similar locations to Dallas and Houston was

also completed.

Airfare Comparison for Similar Sized Airports for 1 Week Trip with 2 Weeks' Notice

~t/

TYUIlI ._'OUMtlS

....-

American United

Ci College Station (Cll) 0 lake Charles (lCH)

D Tyler (TYR)

$600

$400.

$200

$0

a Tyler (TYR)

aAbilene (ABI)

Cl Waco (ACT)

IJ lawton (LAW)

To Dallas (DFW)

a Brownsville (BRO)

a College Station (Cll)

I!'.l Ft Smith (FSM)

o lake Chartes (lCH)

$500

$400

$300

$200

$100

$0

-

I

I

,

,

To Houston (IAH)

D Brownsville (BRO)

Airfares on American for 1 Week Round Trip with 2 Weeks' Notice

..

Allanta (ATL) $329 $338 $561 $335 $408 5353 $554 $34L ._~_$523 __

Austin AUS) $266 $216 $357 $270 $513 $548 $436 $273 $473

Baltimore BWI $425 $382 $454 $445 $488 $463 $509__ .$.433 $573

ChicagQ.jORD) $370 $416 $446 $335 $520 $353 $459 $343 $423

Las Veg~(LAS) $425 $282 $450 $345 $484 $463 $554 $343 $744

Los Angeles (LAX) 51,084 $338 $573 $530 $583 $573 $634 $486 $730

Memphis (MEM) $255 $522 $535 $331 .$330 5289 $1,076 $269 $520

Miami(~ $585 $411 $588 $445 $482 $473 $593 $433 $740

New York (LGA) $42~~94 ___ $4~~ __ ~75 __ ._~42 ____ ~~_. ~5~ ___ ~3A ...~.9~ _"

Orlando MCO) $315 $374 $458 $425 $449 $343 $554 $433 $573

SI. Louis (~Ib)__ . $330 $366 $388 $340 $342 $363 $696 $343 $443

San Francisco SFO $692 $354 $687 $530 $619 $573 $844 $573 $777

~eattle .<S~) $575 $383 5638 5685 $584 $.543 $609 $558 _ .__.!85~

Washington DC (~ $405 $354 $480 $425 $652 $443 $479 $433 $498

Data gathered from American Airlines website.7 /5/13

7
Airfares on United for 1 Week Round Trip with 2 Weeks' Notice

Tyler Houston Brownsville CollegeStation LakeCharles

Destination (TYR (IAH) (BRa) (Cll) (lCH)

$628

$670

$637

5849

$652

5923

MiamiJfI1!~ 2517 $405

New YorkJlGilL____ __$5Cl9.___ _.sJ~L__

Orlando MCO 5569 $421

Sl. Louis(STL) $352 $387

San Francisco(SFO) 5708 $523

Sea!!I~_(l'i~ 5804____ $446

WashingtonDC (~ $444 $544

Data gathered from United Airlines website 7/5113

A~a,,!a(Al.l) 3_339 ~ __$375 $567 _ ~ __ ~85 _ ~ __ ~ _~83

Austin(AUS) $}~~ $~~ ._$354 $25L $399 _

Baltimore(E3\'II) 5~7~13~ $4_3_1 $_58_8 576J...._ 5590_

Chicago(ORO) $377 $437 ~_3____ 5777 $497

Las.Vegas_(LA_S_' $462 __ 5545 __ ...s546 $~6 5623

los Angeles(1"AJ9 $475 $515 $651 3797 $603 _

~ern~his (M_EI'i1J 5300 $624 _ $_53_2 $4_0_9_ _ $4_3_5 _

$_655 $7.Q~ $6,2_' _

_$.53' _$489$596

$530 _~1L. $_~ __ •

$479 ....!.423_~ .£4!.... __

$806

5787

$692

It is notable that fares were reported much lower when competition existed at Tyler PoulJds

Regional Airport. Enplanements were at an all-time high in the 1990's when ASA provided the

same basic service to DFW as American Eagle. Many customers reported that airfares were

very attractive during that period. In 1998, average fares from Tyler to Dallas were $72,

according to the 2000 Wilbur Smith Associates report to the Texas Regional Air Service Task

Force.

After the Octob-er2001 suspension of service by Continental Airlines at Tyler Pounds Regional

Airport, unrestricted flights on American Eagle increased from $181 to $670. There is a

continued public perception of high airfare rates when flying from Tyler.

Fares have become more reasonable especially now that there are two air carriers and

competition has returned with the resumption of service to Houston.Intercontinental via United

Express. Preserving existing service is absolutely crucial and increasing competition even more

by adding service to a new market may help bring fares down more. Stabilization of fares is

needed to keep enplanements at acceptable levels. Airfares fluctuate depending on the current

market status and competition. Loss or reduction of any of the current carriers or service will be

detrimental for Tyler. Without competition in our market we experience inflated air fares.

Consequently commercial air service in our area declines. This is our rnain driver of the

strategy of our action plan.

B. Contributing Factors

A travel agency survey, done by the Wilbur Smith Associates regarding air service needs for

this area, indicated that 60 percent of air travel was for pleasure. Half of origins were from

Dallas, 26 percent were from Tyler and 20 percent were from Shreveport. "Low airfares" were

the main reason for using an airport, with "reliability of service" being the next important factor in

determining from which city to fly. The comparison of current fares, shown above, showed that

8
Tyler Pounds Regional is not experiencing disproportionately high fares at the moment; but

fares fluctuate from week to week. To ensure the success of the East Texas air service, Tyler

Pounds Regional must have stable. airfares, additional carriers and more departure frequency

to improve reliability.

c. Needs and Shortcomings

A 21st Century economic development effort must foster an innovative and entrepreneurial

culture. It must also have a solid understanding of its strengths, weaknesses and advantages.

Last but not least, it must adopt an adaptable, strategic, and forward-looking approach to policy

and economic development.

Tyler, Texas, committed to securing its place in the emerging Innovation Economy, created an

Industry Growth Initiative. Tyler has assessed its unique environment - its strengths,

weaknesses, opportunities, and threats - analyzed existing data and conducted an industry

trends analysis to understand the current market climate and project potential demand for

economic and community development projects and initiatives.

The objective was to pinpoint the industries that make the most sense to focus resources given

Tyler's unique characteristics - and then to develop a series of recommended strategies and

tactics to enable Tyler to grow into the emerging Innovation Economy.

Tyler is a growing community of approximately 100,000 residents (Smith County has

approximately 210,000 residents). It has tremendous prized assets and attributes. Tyler's $3.1

billion healthcare industry includes a health sciences center, several large hospital systems, and

a new research innovation center. In addition to healthcare, Tyler is the education and retail

center of East Texas and has a long. history of a strong professional community including

lawyers and accountants. These competitive advantages alone - if properly nurtured - can lead

a hub like Tyler to become a self-sustaining magnet, attracting additional knowledge workers

who are seeking opportunities and a quality of life typically associated with high growth areas.

As Tyler seeks to leverage its unique position, it must strongly consider a complex combination

of human, social, physical, financial, technological, and organizational aspects. This means

rethinking the value of what might have been historical strategic assets.

Key Findings from the Industry Growth Initiative

" The largest overall operational impact in 2008 within Tyler, Texas, is over $3.2 billion

provided by healthcare industry services.

" The healthcare industry provides the largest overall employment impact, over 25,000 full

time equivalent (FTEs) jobs to the Tyler, Texas, economy.

Summary of Key Findings From Stakeholder Interviews

To gather additional insight on Tyler, Texas, we interviewed almost 40 stakeholders either oneon-one or through small discussion groups. Key findings include:

9
~ Tyler has numerous benefits -: a great quality of life, great family values and natural

beauty.

~ Health care and education were cited frequently - almost ubiquitously-as huge

strengths.

~ The lack of venues, amenities, and infrastructure were commonly cited as weaknesses -

attributes that appeal to innovators, entrepreneurs and professionals - were commonly

cited as a weakness.

~ A number of stakeholders expressed concern about the city's tax and incentive policies:

o Some said that the low tax rate was a huge draw, a major benefit and should

never be touched.

o Others believe that the low tax rate impedes the city in offering incentives,

providing a major hurdle in recruiting businesses.

~ Several said Tyler needs to be aggressive in selling itself and speaking with a

collective voice.

~ Respondents took great pride in the airport but agreed there is a strong need to

derive more economic benefits from it.

Identification and prioritization of

targeted economic opportunities for

Tyler is critical to the creation of an

efficient and focused economic

development effort. The targeted

opportunities for Tyler ultimately

were selected based on a review of

the targets from previous analyses

a review of the area's assets

ascertained through information

gained during stakeholder

interviews, focus/discussion groups

and survey results; secondary

research; and the assessment of

the community. This information

was then reviewed and compared

against the needs of the potential

targets .

=:~...

~

\

\

~-~~.

•

The airport must have increased

numbers of departures and more

destinations from Tyler Pounds Regional Airport as key building blocks for the economic growth

of the region. Furthermore many patrons in the region do not know the services provided by

the airport. It was determined that the airport must sell itself for current and future air

service in order for it to grow.

10
In the Industry Growth Initiative two of the prime strategies are to improve infrastructure and

grow transportation capabilities to 21st century. The report states:

Infrastructure Action Steps: Recommendations for Tyler

Tyler can undertake the following strategic initiatives to further its infrastructure development:

.1. Continue efforts to ensure balanced growth in all areas of the community - including

extension of water and sewer utilities, construction of roads and development of water

treatment plants.

2. Accommodate future growth through annexation; expand infrastructure as prioritized and

outlined in Tyler 21.

3. Implement infrastructure improvements outlined in Tyler 21 while preserving Tyler's

natural beauty including the urban forest and green corridors.

4. Implement south Broadway improvements recommended in Tyler 21's Traffic Congestion

and Mitigation chapter.

5. Update the City's Master Street Plan.

6. Complete and implement projects identified in the 2010 Parks Master Plan.

7. Match public safety investment to community needs.

8. Improve efficiencies at Tyler Pounds Regional Airport.

Tyler has a beautiful airport facility but needs to ensure that it's operating at

maximum efficiency - fewer delayed flights, and expand service to additional

destinations, lost baggage, etc.

21st Century Transportation Action Steps: Recommendations for Tyler

~ Form committees to grow Tyler Pounds Regional Airport:

o The PPP, airport and local business leaders should form a roundtable committee

focused on developing the airport.

~ Commission economic-impact studies:

o The airport committee should then commission and compile an economic-impact.

study that would cover the impact of the airport's various expansions.

~ Develop and implement a comprehensive communications/ PR plan to galvanize support

for Airport expansion and rail service:

o Use numerous tactics to gain community support and reach state and national

audiences to showcase Tyler's efforts and press the case for funding.

The airport regularly receives comments from customers asking for more flights from Tyler.

Many need increased frequency between DFW or IAH and Tyler. At times, customers find it

difficult or impossible to make their connections to flights or connections to get back to Tyler.

11

~/

TYL£R POUNDS

u ••'o ••.••.•.•.....:mT
In summary this proposal for the Small Community Air Service Development Program will

address some of the strategies recommended in Tyler's Industry Growth Initiative and the

concerns of our customers.

• Perform necessary market analysis to target the areas and businesses in our region to

market the airport. Determine leakage to Dallas Love Field and DFW airports. With

this data, the airport should develop a strong marketing plan to promote existing

services in order to grow the need for more departure frequency.

• As stated in Tyler's Industry Growth Initiative, we should sell the airport through a

carefully planned and aggressive marketing plan. Utilize facts from the leakage study

and surveys of potential passengers. Our research validates that our potential

customers have a perception that flying from Tyler Pounds Regional Airport is more

expensive. We find that this is not always true and that air fares directly from TYR are

competitive to a number of markets. Increased public outreach and education will only

increase demand for our commercial air carriers. Our strategy is that increased

demand will maintain and possibly enhance competitive air fares. Furthermore the

airlines serving TYR should have higher load factors and a strong base of support.

This can increase frequency thus improving the air service in Tyler.

• Expand the current airline incentive program for incumbent and/or new airlines to

initiate more frequent flights to Houston or Dallas. Presently Tyler has an ordinance in

place for incentives. The Small Community Air Service Development Program can

greatly expand the incentive program for this specific need by adding marketing

aspects to those locally funded incentives already committed by the City of Tyler.

• Expand the incentive program for incumbent and/or new airlines to initiate new flights

to a new destination such as Memphis, Tennessee or Atlanta, Georgia. Presently

Tyler has an ordinance in place for incentives. The Small Community Air Service

Development Program can greatly expand the incentive program for this specific need

by adding funding to those local funds already committed by the City of Tyler.

III. Air Service Development Action Plan

A. Air Service Action Plan Mission and Objectives

As stated above, our research indicates that our potential customers have a perception that air

fares from Tyler Pounds Regional Airport are more expensive. A new marketing camp~ign will

be launched to educate the public of the conveniences and value of Flying Tyler. Tyler's

primary service area covers a twenty county region. None of the counties west, south and north

of Smith County have commercial air service. People within those counties must drive very long

distances to reach a major hub airport. These counties are in critical need of reliable air service

due to the historical growth. The program must include media outlets in this twenty county area

to draw more customers from outside the immediate Smith County, Texas area. We find that

people in some of these areas have very little knowledge about Tyler Pounds Regional Airport.

Additionally we will explore user friendly applications to calculate travel savings by using Tyler

first.

The airport must redesign and upgrade the airport's incentive program to address aircraft

upgrades, adding new destinations and increased frequency to current destinations. This will

12
be funded by the airport. Marketing components of the incentives will be funded through the

SCASDP. The addition of a new carrier will create competition, which will help keep airfares at a

reasonable rate. As a result, the introduction of new service to a new destination from Tyler

would result in extremely high economic response, especially if service were offered with

competitive fare levels. Furthermore, this activity will generate more revenues for airport

businesses and result in improved revenue streams for the airport to reach economic selfsufficiency.

The airport and City of Tyler will develop a new customer appreciation program to reward

frequent flyers of the Tyler Airport. Parking incentives will be offered for those customers

achieving a set level of trips from Tyler. Again this will be an "In-Kind" contribution from the

airport in support of the SCASDP.

The City of Tyler and Tyler Transit will assess offering new transit routes for bus services to the

airport from downtown Tyler. A program can be developed to institute low fares to the airport

with convenient drop-off points to the departure area at the airport terminal. Designated and

reserved parking will be provided for Tyler Transit and for rural public transit providers.

Fortunately, Tyler Pounds Regional Airport completed construction of a new terminal facility in

August 2002 which is more than capable of handling increased air service. About 40% of the

project was funded by FAA Airport Improvement Program grants. This project was initiated due

to forecasts contained in the airport's Master Plan, support of the public, and from the FAA.

Results of the forecast indicated continual growth in the East Texas region requiring improved

airport facilities.

Objectives

~ Perform a leakage study and customer surveys to update target customers in the

expanded twenty county region. Determine strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and

threats to improved commercial air services.

~ We must educate the public of the competitive fares at Tyler and the advantages of

using our airport. There is a misconception that TYR has high air fares. Address target

audiences, growth in ridership and public education through an expanded long term

advertising campaign.

~ Add more flights and strengthen air services through incentives and 'customer

appreciation opportunities.

B. Programs of the Plan and Organization

Programs of the Plan

~ Implement a Marketing Analysis and Leakage Study for a new Fly Tyler campaign.

Procure a consultant to conduct a Market Leakage Study .

.~ Establish a regional public awareness program and marketing campaign with the

emphasis to educate citizens about competitive fares from the air carriers flying from

Tyler. The message must be to Fly Tyler First.

~ Negotiate with incumbent or new air carriers to increase frequency andlor a new market.

~ Adopt updated incentives to air carriers to offset initiation of new or additional services.

13
}> Develop an airline and economic impact information package.

c. Plan Implementation

1. Market Analysis and Leakage Study

}> With funds from this grant, Tyler will procure a marketing consultant and assemble a

team comprised of business travelers of the region. Planning will emerge from this team

to finalize a vision for an advertising program. The ideal advertising target areas will be

determined by the consultant and team. The marketing consultant will also report on the

Airport's ridership with a focus on factors that lead to ridership losses to other airports.

The consultant and team will make recommendations on how to build ridership and how

to curtail losses of passengers to other airports.

}> Costs for this portion of ihe Action Plan are estimated at $30,000.

2. Marketing Plan

With funds from this grant, Tyler will implement the following advertising program:

}> Develop a new marketing plan to promote existing routes. A strong message must be

established showcasing the competitive air fares from Tyler and show the benefits from

flying Tyler rather than driving long distances to the hub airports.

• Television production will begin after a refined vision has been determined and

approved by the airport and private partnership. High quality digital production

will be utilized for a state-of-the-art ad appearance.

• Local television stations have been contacted for commitments for "in-kind"

advertisement agreements and stations will be selected based on broadcast

areas and viewer numbers.

• Advertising will be broadcasted over an eighteen-month period.

• Radio production and advertising will be held simultaneously with the television

campaign. The message will follow the vision set by the marketing team.

• Magazine and newspaper advertisements will be periodically launched to keep

travelers aware of new airport services and events.

}> A Marketing Team will provide advice and coordinate this project. The Airport will

administer funding for the program.

}> Costs for this portion of the Action Plan are estimated to be $150,000.

}> Available in-kind contributions are estimated to be $210,000 from the private sector.

3. Region-Wide Public Awareness Campaign

}> Our goal is to expose more citizens with the information to Fly Tyler First. Tyler's airport

has taken more aggressive steps in publicizing airport events and service opportunities

through frequent news releases. A new web page has been developed and refined to

provide customers with frequently requested information and exposure of all the

businesses at the airport. Social Media outlets are used to sell and market the airport.

}> Members of the airport travel to other counties within our service area giving

presentations to the local civic groups. Conference facilities at the airport are made

14
available for CIVIC groups, colleges and churches to hold special meetings and

presentations. Tours are frequently held to educate our young travelers, as well as their

teachers, about the conveniences of Tyler Pounds Regional Airport.

~ The Airport hosts "Chamber Days at the Airport". Members from neighboring Economic

Development Councils, Chambers of Commerce and Tourism & Convention groups are

invited to showcase their area in the airport. This is a win-win program allowing the

airport to inform and show people from other areas the benefits of local air service while

they also gain more exposure for their respective areas. These programs have seen

very positive results and will have even larger impacts to promote regional air service

from Tyler, Texas.

~ An organizing committee from many of the private partnerships will administer this

project. Funding for the program will be administered by the Airport

~ Costs for Jhis portion of the Action Plan are to be paid by the airport, Tyler Area

Chamber of Commerce and Tyler Economic Development Corporation. Chamber Days

are sponsored by Texas Oncor Electric Delivery, Jet Center of Tyler and RS&H

Engineers.

~ Costs for this portion of the Action Plan are estimated to be $4,500 paid by the private

sector.

4. Expand Airline Service

~ Adopt a new Airline Incentive Plan:

o New service to a new destination:

• New Air Carrier

• Waive terminal lease fees for one year

• Waive landing fees for one year

• Support the service with $25,000 in marketing support

• Existing Air Carrier

• Waive Landing Fees for aircraft servicing the new destination for two years

• Support the service with $25,000 in marketing support

o Adding daily weekday flights to an existing destination

• New Air Carrier

• . Waive landing fees for the additional flights for 18 months

• Support the service with $20,000 in marketing support

• Existing Air Carrier

• Waive landing fees for the additional flights for 18 months

• Support the service with $20,000 in marketing support

~ Costs for this portion of the Action Plan are estimated to be $70,000.

~ Available in-kind contributions are estimated to be $146,190 from the airport.

5. Airline Information Package

~ An airline information package will be developed to provide regional demographics,

economic statistics, airline activity, and industry air travel requirements giving the

airline(s) a true picture of what is happening within our region. While it's understood that

the airlines track the competitors in potential markets, this information packet will be

used as a tool to market Tyler Pounds Regional Airport specifically to potential new

15
airlines for our region. We also plan to incorporate much of the content in the airport's

web page to allow airlines access to the information at any time. The information

package will include the following:

• Comparative and Historic Airline Activity in Tyler

• Enplanement I Deplanement data

• Tyler's Current Airline Activity data

• Airline Incentive Program packet

• Economic Trends

• Population of Smith and Surrounding Counties

• Regional Industry Profiles

•. Map of region

~ Utilization of the airline information package will expose more of the regional

demographics and economic statistics. Additionally, critical airline activity statistics,

along with industry air travel requirements, will be updated and provided in the

information packet.

~ Regional travel agency conventions for the local air carriers to network services and

discuss future needs.

~ Available in-kind contributions are estimated to be $2,500 from the airport.

D. Composition of Public/Private Partnership

The City of Tyler and Tyler Pounds Regional Airport will partner with the Tyler Area Chamber of

Commerce to implement this program. The City of Tyler will serve as the public entity to receive

reimbursement from the grant. Airport Manager Davis Dickson will be responsible for accepting

the reimbursements from the program.

The Chamber's Aviation Committee will assist in developing and implementing the marketing

strategies and evaluating the effectiveness of the program. Annually, the Aviation Committee

charts aviation-related activities for accomplishment and monitors the status of these quarterly.

The elements of this program will be added to the Committee's annual work program.'

The Aviation Committee was organized more than 25 years ago, and has supported Tyler

Pounds Regional Airport and aeronautic activities and businesses since its inception.

E. Differences from Previous Grant

Tyler was awarded a Small Community Air Service Development Grant in 2004. The objectives

were much different than those being proposed now. The immediate result of the 2004 program

was to acquire new service to Austin, Texas. Air fares were high and the focus was to reduce

fares.

16
Objectives in 2004

» Negotiate for a new air carrier(s) to serve the Austi"n, Texas Market.

» Part of the grant funds were to be used to defray startup costs for the airline providing

service to Austin.

» Educate the public on the ease of -use of Tyler Pounds Regional Airport and services

provided.

» Market the airport to increase the usage of the current and proposed new services.

We feel that the addition and continuing services of Continental Express (now United Express)

is partly due to results of the 2004 grant. However there is a need to strengthen this service in

order to keep it in Tyler. We must educate the public of competitive air fares in Tyler. Our

prime objective is to change the public's perception of high air fares in Tyler and add flights to

improve reliability.

IV. Action Plan Budget

A. Funding Requirements/Assurances

• Adoption of a Resolution to use $25,000 of local general fund and/or hotel/motel tax

dollars solely for community participation by the Tyler City Council once a grant is

awarded.

• Airport funds are audited annually according to GAAP standards and will be available

upon request.

DESCRIPTION

Marketing Consultant

Air carrier incentives

Comprehensive Marketing Expenses

Total Expenses

Local Share:

City of Tyler General Revenue and/or Hotel/Motel Taxes

Share '

Federal Share

Total Revenue

B. "In-Kind" Contributions

AMOUNT

$ 30,000

$ 70,000

$150,000

$250,000

$ 25,000

$225,000

$250,000

Tyler Pounds Regional Airport will hire an outside consulting firm to develop a marketing

program to increase airport usage by local travelers, including business and pleasure, to attract

tourists, and to educate the public on Tyler's user-friendly airport, available flights and the cost

of driving versus flying. At this time, a dollar value cannot be an exact amount due to the

advertising program and schedule have not being finalized.

17
The following is a list of the local media who made commitments supporting this program with

"In-Kind" Contributions, in some cases matching amounts spent on advertising is dollar for

dollar.

.~ Radio

o KCKL Radio

.~ Television

oKLTV-Ch7

o CBS -Ch19

IN-KIND ESTIMATED BUDGET

~/

~

r.'g~~f~,~~

DESCRIPTION

Airport Incentives

Private Sector Contributions

Marketing and Media

Total

V. ACCOUNTABLIITY

A. Program Monitoring

AMOUNT

$148,690

$ 4,500

$210,000

$363,190

The Tyler Area Chamber of Commerce Aviation Committee will add the program elements to its

annual work program. Progress will be monitored quarterly. Quarterly reports will be submitted

to the Department of Transportation.

Critical milestones will include:

• Structure and prepare all legal documents for the incentive package available for

increased frequency and/or new air service

• Initiate notification to air carriers about the incentive packages available for increased

frequency and/or new service, within three months of grant acceptance.

• Issuance of a Request for Proposal (RFP) from Advertising/Marketing Firms to

determine market leakage and develop and implement a F/y Ty/er campaign within three

months of grant acceptance. Hire firm within three months of RFP issuance.

• Commence marketing campaign within two months upon completion of

Advertising/Marketing Firm campaign plan.

These critical milestones will be tracked according to their completion within the

proposed timeline. Additionally, marketing campaigns will be monitored for success by using

monthly enplanementldeplanement reports, announcements of new air service, and airport

tenant activity reports. These reports will be distributed to the Tyler Area Chamber of

Commerce Aviation Committee, Texas Department of Transportation and the U.S. Department

of Transportation.

18
B. Adjustment Plan

Progress will be analyzed and reported as stated. If goals meet or exceed the criteria for

increased ridership and service, the Texas Department of Transportation and the U.S.

Department of Transportation will be notified that funding can be discontinued and Tyler will

continue this effort independently.

If these criteria are not within the limits established by the monitoring committee then additional

proposals with status reports will be presented to the Texas Department of Transportation and

U.S. Department of Transportation for negotiation of future temporary funding requests.

VI. Conclusion

The Small Community Air Service Development Program will be a tremendous asset for Tyler

and the East Texas region. Tyler, Smith County and surrounding counties have crucial goals for

continued development over the next five years in the areas of medical research, medical care,

higher education and industrial expansion. Air service enhancements, as a result of this

program, will greatly increase the prospect for our region to attract business and economic

development opportunities that were previously lost due to unreliable or limited air service at

Tyler Pounds Regional Airport.

In response to a widespread desire from the public to improve airport facilities, the City of Tyler

constructed a $17 million new terminal building complex at Tyler Pounds Regional Airport. The

previous terminal facility was 55 years old and was challenged to meet the goals of the region.

However, even with the new terminal, the goals will not be met without an aggressive

outreach program to enhance the area's air service.

Funding for the terminal project was achieved through a partnership between the City of Tyler

and the Federal Aviation Administration. The FAA committed over $6.2 million while the city

contributed over $11 million for this critical project.

Tyler's airport must grow to support Tyler's $3.1 billion healthcare industry, health sciences

center, large hospital systems, and a new research innovation center. The Universities in Tyler

and growing oil production industry relies on reliable and efficient air travel. It is obvious that

Tyler Pounds Regional Airport must educate the customers to use its airport and lure more air

service to meet the demand.

Tyler's strategic plan, including the new terminal, in unison with this proposed marketing plan

and new incentive programs will stimulate the airport's economic self-sufficiency in the new

terminal facility. Extremely positive impacts to the economy of the East Texas region are

forecasted, and East Texas travelers will have improved opportunities for travel around the

world. The Small Community Air Service Development Program is a great opportunity for Tyler,

Texas to meet these needs.

19
APPLICATION UNDER

SMALL COMMUNITY AIR SERVICE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

DOCKET DOT-OST-2013-0120

SUMMARY INFORMATION

All applicants must submit this Summary Information schedule, as the application

coversheet, a completed standard form SF424 and the full application proposal on

www.grants.gov.

For your preparation convenience, this Summary Information schedule is located at

http://www .dot. gOY/policy/ ayiation- po!icy/small-communi ty-rural-air -seryi ce/SCAS DP

A. PROVIDE THE LEGAL SPONSOR ANDITS DUNAND BRADSTREET (D&B) DATA UNIVERSAL

NUMBERING SYSTEM (DUNS) NUMBER, INCLUDING +4, EMPLOYEE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER

(EIN) OR TAX ID.

Legal Sponsor Name:

DUNS Number:

EIN/Tax ID:

City of Tyler - Tyler Pounds Regional Airport

137951732

75-6000697 -9

B. LIST THE NAME OF THE COMMUNITY OR CONSORTIUM OF COM~HJNITI"S APPLYING:

1. CITY OF TYLER

2. _

3.-----------------------

4.

C. PROVIDE THE FULL AIRPORT NAME AND3-LETTER lATA AIRPORT CODE FOR THE

APPLICANT(S) AIRPORT(S) (ONLY PROVIDE CODES FOR THE AIRPORT(S) THAT ARE ACTUALLY

SEEKING SERVICE).

1.Tyler Pounds Regional Airport - TYR 2.

3. 4.

D. LIST THE 2-DIGIT CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT CODE APPLICABLE TO THE SPONSORING

ORGANIZATION, ANDIF A CONSORTIUM, TO EACH PARTICIPATING COMMUNITY.

1.

3.

01

1

2.

4.
E. ApPLICANTINFORMATION:(CHECKALL THAT ApPLY)

Q] Not a Consortium 0 Interstate Consortium o Intrastate Consortium

o Community now receives subsidized Essential Air Service

[J] Community (or Consortium member) previously received a Small Community Air

Service Development Program Grant

If previous recipient: Year of grant(s): 2004

F. PUBLICIPRIVATEPARTNERSHIPS:(LIST ORGANIZATIONNAMES)

PUBLIC

1. City of Tyler

2. Tyler Cbamber of Commerce

3. Tyler Economic Development Corp.

4.

5.

PRIVATE

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

G. PROJECT PROPOSAL:(CHECKALLTHATAPPLY)

--I Marketing 0

Upgrade Aircraft --I New Route

0

Travel Bank 0Service Restoration 0

Subsidy

0

Surface Transportation 0Regional Service 0

Revenue Guarantee

--I Launch New Carrier 0 Start-~p Cost Offset 0

First Service

--I Study 0

Secure Additional Service 0

Other (explain below)

--I Published Instrument Approach

--I Localizer o Other (specify)

Increase number of flights provided by existing carriers and dispel perception of unreasonable air

fares through public education.

H. EXISTINGLANDINGAIDS ATLOCALAIRPORT:

--I FulllLS --I OuterlMiddle Marker

I. PROJECTCOST: Do NOTENTERTEXTINSHADEDAREA

LINE DESCRIPTION

1

2

Federal amount requested

State cash financial contribution

SUBTOTAL TOTALAMOUNT

$225,000

2
Local cash financial contribution

3a Airport cash funds 0

3b Non-airport cash funds $25,000

3 Total local cash funds (3a + 3b) $25,000

4 TOTAL CASH FUNDING (1+2+3) $250,000

In-Kind contribution

Sa Airport In-Kind contribution" $148,690.00

5b Other In-Kind contribution** $214,500.00

5 TOTAL IN-KIND CONTRIBUTION $363,190

(Sa + 5b)

6 TOTAL PROJECT COST (4+5) $613,190

J. IN-KIND CONTRIBUTIONS**

For funds in lines 5a (Airport In-Kind contribution) and 5b (Other In-Kind contribution), please

describe the source(s) offund(s) and the value ($) of each.

Sa: Airport In-Kind

NEW SERVICE

Description Rate Unils Otv Total

Landing Fees $ 0.65 42500 520 $ 14,365

rental $ 3,750 I 12 $ 45,000

Landing Fees (Existing $ 0.65 42,500 1040 $ 28,730

EXISTING DESTINATIONS

Landing Fees $ 0.65 42500 1560 $ 43,095

Parking Incentive $ 5.00 750 4 $ 15,000

Chamber Dav $ 2500

Total Airport Contribution $ 148,690

3
Yes (explain)

5b: Other In-Kind

Matching Total Marketin!! IMedia Rate

KLTV $ 90,000 1 $ 90,000

KXTX $ 90,000 1 $ 90,000

Radio $ 20,000 1 $ 20000

Newspaper $ 20,000 0.5 $ 10,000

Total $ 220,000 $ 210,000

Private sponsorship from Chamber Day $ 4,500

- - - - . - -

TOTAL

Airport $ 148690

Other $ 214,500

Grand Total $ 363,190

K. Is THIS ApPLICATION SUBJECT To REVIEW By STATE UNDER EXECUTIVE ORDER 12372

PROCESS?

[I] a. This application was made available to the state under the Executive Order 12372

Process for review on (date) Concurrent - July 26, 2013

o b. Program is subject to E.O. 12372, but has not been selected by the state for review.

o c. Program is not' covered by E.O. 12372.

L. Is THE ApPLICANT DELINQUENT ON ANY FEDERAL DEBT? (IF "YES", PROVIDE

EXPLANATION)

ITlNO 0

4
CAPITOL OFACE

P.O. Box 12068

AUSTIN. TEXAS 78711.2068

(512) 463-0101

(512) 475.3751 FAX

DIAl 71 ) FOR RELAY CAlLS

DIS1lUCT OFFICE - TYLER

3304 S. BROADWAY AVE; Sre 103

TYLER, TEXAS 75701

(903) 596-9122

(903) 596-9189 FAX

KEVIN P. ELTIFE

STATE SENATOR

July 19,2013

DISTRICT OFFICE - LoNOVIEW

GREGO COUNrY COUImiOUSE, STE 301

10I E. METHVIN

LoNGVIEW, TEXAS 75601

(903) 753.8137

(903) 753-8568 FAX

DISTRICT OmcE.. - TEXARKANA

5411 PlAZA DR .• STE D

TEXARKANA, TEXAS 75503

(903) 223.7931

(903) 223.7963 FAX

Mr. Davis Dickson, Airport Manager

Tyler Pounds Regional Airport

City of Tyler

700 Skyway Blvd.; Suite 201

Tyler, Texas 75704

RE: Small Community Air Service Development Program

Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120

CFDA Number 20.930

United States Department of Transportation

Washington, DC

Dear Mr. Dickson:

Thank you for letting me know of the grant application submitted by Tyier Pounds'

Regional Airport to the United States Department of Transportation. As a

frequent user of Tyler Pounds Regional Airport, I am appreciative of the great

service provided but also mindful of the need for improvements and expansion.

If I can provide additional information, please let me know. Thank you again for

letting me know of your efforts.

evin P. Eltife

State Senator

KPE/cv

CoMMmEES: CHAIR. ADMINISTRATION. Ecor..UMIC DeVELOPMENT. BUSINESS & COMMERCE. FINANCE. NATURAL RESOURCES
TE X A 5 COM P T R aLL E R of PUB Lie Ace a U NT 5

July 18,2013

Mr. Anthony Foxx

Secretary

U.S. Department of Transportation

1200 New Jersey Ave., SE

Washington, D.C. 20590

SUS A N

COM B S

RE: Small Community Air Service Development Program; Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120,

CFDA Number 20.930, for Tyler Pounds Regional Airport (TYR)

Dear Secretary Foxx:

I am pleased to offer my support to Tyler Pounds Regional Airport's application for a grant from

the U.S. Department of Transportation's Small Community Air Service Development Pilot

Program.

The Tyler metropolitan area is a rapidly growing hub for economic development in Northeast

Texas. The community has become a magnet for higher education, research and development

and medical services. The improvements in air service that would result from this grant would

help accelerate economic growth throughout the region and attract additional high-wage

employers.

Over the years, Tyler has demonstrated a strong local commitment to improving Tyler Pounds

Regional Airport's facilities. The community has leveraged local, state and federal funds to

construct a new passenger terminal and numerous runway and safety improvements. A grant

from the Small Community Air Service Development Pilot Program will help the city promote

this world.class regional airport facility and assure that it is utilized to its maximum capacity to

benefit the people of Northeast Texas.

I hope that Tyler Pounds Regional Airport's application will be given utmost consideration for

this grant. The improved air service the program would facilitate will enhance mobility for the

community's residents and increase economic growth and opportunity throughout the Northeast

Texas region.

Sincerely,

.M~Susan Combs

H'IJW WINOOW~T•••TC 1'1(os .. PO Box 13526 • AUSTIN, Tx 78711"3528 •.5l2.463-4444 • TOLL FREE l.eOO.S31 •.~441 • F".•••l':' 512-463'496:
SCBS19

[MeiE C!W cezi

July 17, 2013

The Honorable Anthony Foxx

Secretary

US Department of Transportation

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE

Washington DC 20590

Re: Small Community Air Service Development Program

Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120

CFDA Number 20.930

Honorable Mr. Foxx,

KYTX CBS 19 and our affiliate stations strongly supports the efforts of the City of Tyler and

Tyler Pounds Regional Airport to obtain funding through the U.S. Department of

Transportation's Small Community Air Service Development Program grant for air service

enhancements at Tyler Pounds Regional Airport.

An award of this grant will be a tremendous asset for Tyler and the entire East Texas region.

Tyler, Smith County and surrounding counties have crucial goals for continued development

over the next five years in the areas of medical research, medical care, higher education and

industrial expansion. Air service enhancements, as a result of this program, will greatly increase

the prospect for our region to attract business and economic development opportunities.

I have personally had the opportunity to work closely with Davis Dickson and the staff of Tyler

Pounds Regional Airport and have found their desire to serve the citizens of East Texas to be

enthusiastic and passionate. Their planning and forward thinking represents the very best in

regional airport management. I sincerely believe an investment in their efforts will provide a

positive impact to the citizens and business community in our region.

lint Y Us

Account ecutive

KYTX-CBS 19IKCEB-MeTVI MYTX-The CWi OYTX-COZI TV

2211 ESE Loop 323 Tyler. TX 75701

p: 903-581-2211 f: 903-581-5769 c: 903-596-7470

cyeatts@cbsI9.tv www.cbsl9 tv - LOCAL Intemel Advertising Made Affordable

I!l~ aD cezl ~.
Dear Davis:

Best of luck in the application review process. Please let us know how else we can help.

Davis Dickson, Airport Manager

Tyler Pounds Regional Airport

700 Skyway Blvd., Suite 201

Tyler, TX 75704

July 10. 2013

The Tyler Area Chamber of Commerce and Tyler Economic Development Council

strongly endorse your application for a Small Community Air Service Development grant

to be used for the purpose of marketing the Tyler Pounds Regional Airport as a travel

option for Tyler and East Texas business and .Ieisure flyers.

The Tyler Airport is a convenient option for travelers in this region and provides efficient

connections to two International hubs - DFW and Houston Intercontinental. Business

flyers save hours on the road by flying out of Tyler verses driving two hours to DFW or

three and one-half hours to Houston.

We know previous "Fly Tyler" campaigns were very successful and increased boardings

in Tyler by 15%. We think another more aggressive promotional effort will generate

even stronger results.

cc: Mary Elizabeth Jackson, Tyler Area Chamber of Commerce. Board Chairman

Tom Ellis, Tyler Economic Development Council - Board Chairman

Dennis McAfee, Tyler Area Chamber of Commerce. Aviation Committee Chairman

Charles Hill, Tyler Area Chamber of Commerce - Area Dev. Council Chairman

Henry Bell, Tyler Area Chamber of Commerce' Chief Operating Officer

Sincerely,

7~~~;'

Thomas G. Mullins, CEcD

President/CEO
THE C.T. BRANNON CORPORATION

AQUATIC CONSULTANTS I CIVIL ENGINEERS I AIRPORT CONSULTANTS

July 17, 2013

The Honorable Anthony Foxx

Secretary

US Department of Transportation

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE

Washington DC 20590

Re: Small Community Air Service Development Program

Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120

CFDA Number 20.930

Honorable Foxx,

The CT Brannon Corporation strongly supports the efforts of the City of Tyler and Tyler

Pounds Regional Airport to obtain funding through the U.S. Department of

Transportation's Small Community Air Service Development Program grant for air

service enhancements at Tyler Pounds Regional Airport.

An award of this grant will be a tremendous asset for Tyler and the entire East Texas

region. Tyler, Smith County and surrounding counties have crucial goals for continued

development over the next five years in the areas of medical research, medical care,

higher education and industrial expansion. Air service enhancements, as a result of this

program, will greatly increase the prospect for our region to attract business and

economic development opportunities. .

Robert A. Breedlove, PE

Principal

The CT Brannon Corporation

1321 South Broadway

P.O. Box 7487

Tyler. TX 75711

Phone (903) 597-2122

Fax (903) 597-3346

WWW.BRANNONCORP.COM

Texas Registered Engineering Firm

Texas Registration #F-242

Registered In; AL, AR, CO, Fl, GA, LA, MO, MS, NE, NM, NV, OK, TN, VA
THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT TYLER

~'.l(MI\JNIVERStTY BOi."LEVARD • TYLER. TX 7;'171)9 • (90)) ;'166-7119 • FAX: (90.') 566-1'068

OffiCE Of THE I"RESIDFNT

July 19,2013

u.s. Department of Transportation

Washington, D.C.

RE: Small Community Air Service Development Program

Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120

CFDA Number 20.930

As the President of The University of Texas of Tyler (UT Tyler), I strongly support

the Tyler Pounds Regional Airport grant proposal through the Small Community

Air Service Development Pilot Program. This grant would be a tremendous asset

for the East Texas region as we deal with growth. Weare experiencing growth in

the areas of medical research, retail, medical care, transportation, goods

distribution, energy and higher education sectors. It would further allow us to

increase economic development opportunities and attract more businesses to the

region.

The administration ofUT Tyler favorably supports the improvement of air service

in Tyler and the surrounding East Texas area currently served by the Tyler Pounds

Regional Airport.

Your consideration of this proposal for funding is much appreciated.

Sincerely,

7(~m7

Rodney H. Mabry, Ph.D.

President

Dr. Ben R. Fisch Professor of Economics and Finance

THf.uNIVf:RSITY 01 TJiXAS ,\T TYLER ISAN EQUAL OPl'OJmlNITY I:MPLOyr;R
Adams

ENGINEERING

July 16, 2013

The Honorable Anthony Foxx, Secretary

United States Department of Transportation

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE

Washington, DC 20S90

Re: Small Community Air Service Development Program

. Docket DOT-OST-0213-0120

CFDA Number 20.930

Dear Mr. Secretary:

As frequent users of Tyler Pounds Regional Airport, our engineering firm is highly dependent upon its

use and facilities. Although Tyler's relatively small number of flights are at near capacity, many people

in our community are still unaware of the convenience and ease of flying from a smaller regional

airport to a hub airport such as DFW or Houston Intercontinental.

Tyler's 2012 Trade Area demographics are estimated to be more than 600,000 in population. With

Texas now being one of the fastest growing states in the nation, we are seeing immediate and future

needs for Tyler's airport growth and airline service. Our businesses, schools, medical facilities and

traveling public, both current and future, are highly dependent upon the continuation and

enhancement of reliable, convenient and affordable airport services. .

We ask for your sincere consideration be given to Tyler's Small Community Air Service Development

Program Grant Application.

Yours truly,

CCJC.

Joe T. Jones, CPA

Controller and Vice President

Woodgate IV Office Park

1101 ESE Loop 323. Suite 101 .• Tyler, Texas 75701

903.324.8400 • FAX903.324.8450 .

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Jul09 13 03:47p D. M. Edwards 903-592-3722 p.2

MR. D. M. EDWARDS. INVESTMENTS

3600 JILL CIRCLE

TYLER1 TEXAS 75701

OFFICE: 903-592-3724 FAX: 903-592-3723 RESIDENCE: 903-592-3722

NATIONWIDE Tau-FREE: 1-866-937-1234

LOCA TIONS IN TYLER, HOUSTON, ODESSA, AND SHREVEPORT, LA

July 9, 2013

Re: Small Community Air SeIVice Development Program

Docket DOT-OST-20 13-0120

CFDA Nwnber 20.930

Mr. Anthony Foxx, Secretary

United States Department of Transportation

1200 New Jersey Avenue, SE

Washington, DC 20590

Dear Sir:

Tyler Pounds Regional Airport and supporters througb.out Tyler and Smith County are

aggressively pursuing a grant through the Small Community Air Service Development Pilot

Program being offered by the U.S. Department of Transportation. An award of this grant ~i1l be

a tremendous asset for Tyler and the entire East Texas region. Tyler, Smith County and

surrounding counties have crucial goals for continued development over the next five years in

the areas of medical research, medical care, higher education and industrial expansion. Air

service enhancements, as a result of this program, will greatly increase the prospect for our

region to attract business and economic development opportunities.

In response to a widespread desire from the public to improve airport facilities, the City of Tyler

and the FAA completed an aggressive project to construct a $17 million new airport terminal

complex at Tyler Pounds Regional Airport. The goals of this project are to increase and improve

air service for East Texas. However, even with the new tenninal, the goals may not meet their

full potential without a continuing outreach program to enhance the area's air service. The Small

Community Air Service Development Program is a wonderful opportunity for the City of Tyler

. to help meet these needs. .

I write you to endorse this grant application and request your full support.

. M. Edwards, Chairman & CEO

Edwards Investments

DMElss
THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT TYLER

3900 UNIVERSITY BOULEVARD. TYLER, TX 75799 • (903) 566-7360 • FAX: (903) 566-7211

www ully1cr cduJcbl • www uttyler edu!techno!(ury

COLLEGE OF

BUSINESS AND TECHNOLOGY

DepartTnent of Human Resource

Development and Technology

July 17, 2013

The Honorable Anthony Foxx

Secretary

US Department of Transportation

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE

Washington DC 20590

Re: Small Community Air Service Development Program

Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120

CFDA Number 20.930

Honorable Foxx,

I strongly support the efforts of the City of Tyler and Tyler Pounds Regionai Airport to obtain funding

through the U.S. Department of Transportation's Smali Community Air Service Development Program

grant for air service enhancements at Tyler Pounds Regional Airport.

An award of this grant will be a tremendous asset for Tyler and the entire East Texas region. Tyler, Smith

County and surrounding counties have crucial goals for continued development over the next five years in

the areas of medical research, medical care, higher education and industrial expansion. Air service

enhancements, as a resuit of this program, will greatiy increase the prospect for our region to attract

business and economic development opportunities.

As a faculty member of The University of Texas at Tyler, I have seen firsthand how the university

enroliment has doubled over the last 10 years. In addition, the university is establishing a School of

Pharmacy that wili attract a lot of new students to the new area. Because of this growth, an adequate

airport needs to support the expanding community development to continue to attract more people to the

area and encourage this growth for Texas. Funding for the airport would be put to good use and is vitai to

this area's continued expansion.

Sincereiy,

Mark R. Milier, Ph.D., CSTM, CSMS, CSEG, CLSSBB

Coordinator of Industrial Technology & Industrial Management

The University of Texas at Tyler

mmiller@uttyler.edu

199~

THE UXI\'£RSlTY OF TEXAS AT TYLER 1S AN EQUAL OPPORTU:-lITY EMPLOYER

@AT'MAE The A~wdoltlQnofTechnology.

M.anagement, and Applied Engin~rin9

2002
~ ......,.. ~~press@ {I EMPLOYMENT PROFESSIONALS

July 12, 2013

Mr. Anthony Foxx

US Department of Transportation

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE

Washington DC 20590

Respecting People. Impacting Business."

5609 Donnybrook Ave.

Tyler, TX 75703

(903) 592-9999

FAX (903) 592-9898

RE: Support of grant application for the Small Community Air Service

Development Program

Dear Mr. Foxx,

This letter is to inform you of my support of the application for the Small

Community Air Service Development Program grant needed for the Tyler

Pounds Airport in Tyler, TX,

An award of this grant will be a tremendous asset for Tyler and the entire East

Texas area, Smith County and the surrounding counties have expansion goals

for continued development over the next five years, Air Service development, as

a result of this program, will greatly increase the prospect for our region to attract

business and economic development opportunities in our community,

Thank you for your time, We hope you take our support into consideration,

Respectfully,

Rocky Gill

Owner

www.expresstyler.com
July 17, 2013

The Honorable Anthony Foxx

Secretary

US Department of Transportation

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE

Washington DC 20590

Re: Small Community Air Service Development Program

Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120

CFDA Number 20.930

Honorable Foxx,

,

Jet Center of Tyler supports the efforts of the City of Tyler and Tyler Pounds Regional

Airport to obtain funding through the U.S. Department of Transportation's Small

Community Air Service Development Program grant for air service enhancements at our

airport, Tyler Pounds Regional Airport.

The grant will be a tremendous asset for Tyler and the entire East Texas region. Tyler,

Smith County and surrounding counties have set goals for continued development over

the next five years in the areas of medical research, medical care, higher education and

industry. The enhancement of air service will be a positive impact to our local economy

and will greatly increase the prospect for our region to attract new business to our area.

Respectfully,

Randa Conner

General Manager

Jet Center of Tyler

209 Airport Drive - Tyler, Texas 75704 - 903-526-6000 - F 903-526-6060

www.ietcenteroftvler.com
KCKL

95.9FM

Lake Countl'V Radio, LP

KCKL 96.9 FM

KLVQ 1410 AM and KLVQ 94.6 FM

July 22nd, 2013

Davis Dickson

Airport Manager

Tyler Pounds Regional Airport

700 Skyway Blvd. #201

Tyler, TX 75704

Re: Small Community Air Service Development Program

Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120 .

CFDA Number 20.930

Dear Davis,

Lake Country Radio LLP supports the airport's endeavor to improve air service

in our community by using the Small Community Air Service Development Grant

and is offering matching in kind advertising.

We appreciate your efforts to improve air service to our East Texas community

and will do what we can to support those efforts. We certainly hope that you are

successful in receiving the grant and look forward to working with you in the near

future. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have. any questions or I can

be of any additional assistance.

Sincerely,

David Gates

President, Lake Country Radio, LLP.

11125 Hwy31 W

Malakoff, TX 75148

PO Box 489, 11125 Hwy. 31 East. Malakoff, Texas 75148 Ph: 903.489.1238 F: 903.489.2671
(l)KLTVe

KLTV-TV

105 West Ferguson

Tyler, TX 75702

Ph: (903)597-5588

Fax: (903) 510-7847

www.kltv.com

July 22,2013

Davis Dickson

Airport Manager

Tyler Pounds Regional Airport

700 Skyway Blvd. #201

Tyler, TX 75704

Re: Small Community Air Service Development Program

Docket DOT-OST -2013-0120

CFDA Number 20.930

Dear Mr. Dickson,

KLTV supports the airport's endeavor to improve air service in our community by using the

Small Community Air Service Development Grant and we will offer matching in-kind

advertising.

We appreciate the City of Tyler's efforts to improve air service to East Texas and will do what

we can to support those efforts. We certainly hope that you are successful in receiving the

grant and look forward to continuing our partnership with you. Please do not hesitate to

contact me if you have any questions or I can be of any additional assistance.

Sincerely,

;J~Jlo--

Pat Stacey

VP I General Manager, KLTV-TV I KTRE-TV
07/23/2013 16:20 FAX 9035815769

.:....

KCEB' EAST TEXAS

IiZI002/002

KYTX- TV • 2211 ESE Loop 323 • Tyler. Texas 75701 • 903.581.2211 • 903.581.5769 FAX

July 22, 2013

Davis Dickson

Airport Manager

Tyler Pounds Regional Airport

700 Skyway Blvd. #201

Tyler, TX 75704

Re: Small Community Air Service Development Program

Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120

CFDA Number 20.930

Dear Mr. Dickson,

CBS 19 supports the Tyler Pounds Regional Airport's endeavor to Improve air service in

our community by using the Small Community Air Service Development Grant and we

are offering matching in-kind advertising.

We appreciate your efforts to improve air service to our community and will do what we

can to support those efforts. We certainly hope that you are successful in receiving the

grant and look forward to working with you in the near future. Please do not hesitate to

contact me if you have any questions or I can be of any additional assistance.

Sincerely,

www.cbS19.1v
EAST TEXAS

SCBS19

[MeiE

July 17,2013

Davis Dickson

Airport Manager

Tyler Pounds Regional Airport

700 Skyway Blvd. #201

Tyler, TX 75704

Re: Small Community Air Service Development Program

Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120

CFDA Number 20.930

Dear Davis,

KYTX-CBS 19 and our affiliate stations strongly supports the Tyler Pounds Regional Airport's

endeavor to improve air service in our community by using the Small Community Air Service

Development Grant and is offering matching in kind advertising.

We appreciate your efforts to improve air service to our community and will do what we can to

support those efforts. We certainly hope that you are successful in receiving the grant and look

forward to working with you in the near future. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have

any questions or I can be of any additional assistance.

int Yea s

Account ecutive

KYTX-CBS 19OKCEB-MeTVIMYTX-The CWI OYTX-COZI TV

2211 ESE Loop 323 Tyler. TX 75701

p: 903-581-2211 f: 903.581-5769 c: 903-596.7470

cyeattsiD'cbs 19.tv ~~v"s:~.!l9!.!"!. LOCAL fntemet Advertising Made Affordable

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July 18, 2013

The Honorable Anthony Foxx

Secretary

US Department of Transportation

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE

Washington DC 20590

Re: Small Community Air Service Development Program

Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120

CFDA Number 20.930

Honorable Foxx,

Please accept this correspondence as a strong support of the efforts of the City of Tyler

and Tyler Pounds Regional Airport to obtain funding through the U.S. Department of

Transportation's Small Community Air Service Development Program grant for air

service enhancements at Tyler Pounds Regional Airport.

An award of this grant will be a tremendous asset for Tyler and the entire East Texas

region. Tyler, Smith County and surrounding counties have crucial goals for continued

development over the next five years in the areas of medical research, medical care,

higher education and industrial expansion. Air service enhancements, as a result of this

program, will greatly increase the prospect for our region to attract business and.

economic development opportunities.

~

es tfully, ,/) Ii ;1

71h.A . r #tf7L~

La ry Pittm~ddard, Ph.D., Certified Fund Raising Executive

Executive ~~~r, Tyler .ISD Foundation
07/22/2013 10:07

-.- ----- -- -- •• - --

July 10, 2013

62528 P.001/001

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\

,

The Honorable Anthony Foxx

Secretary

US Department of Transportation

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE

Washington DC 205'90

Re; Small Community Air Service Development Program

Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120

CFDA Number 20.930

Honorable FoJOC,

tic~lJkJd--;£.,./W strongly supports the efforts of the ifohyler and Tyler Pounds Regional Airport to 'obtain funding through the U.S.

Department of Transportation's Small Community Air Service Development Program

grant for air service enhancements at Tyler Pounds Regional Airport .

•

An award of this grant will ~_ a tfem!'lftdous asse.tfoI Tyler and the entire East Texas

region. Tyler, Smith County' and surrounding counties have crucial goals for continued

development over the next five years in the areas of medical research. medical care.

higher education and industrial expansion. Air service enhancements, as a result of this

program, will greatly increase the prospect for our region to attract business and

economic development opportunities,

Respectfully,

Randall and Linda Holt

.~.'
Parsley

•~tf 1,.

Yc1."

July 21, 2013

9035092924

TEXAS EAST GYMNASTICS

1937 Deerbmok DroTyler TX 7570j'(903)509.FLIP

www.TexasEastGymnastics.com

The Honorable Anthony Foxx

Secretary

USDepartment of Transportation

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE

Washington DC20590

Re: Small Community Air Service Development Program

Docket 00T-OST-213-0120

CFDANumber 20.930

Honorable Foxx,

Dwight Parsley strongly supports the efforts of the City of Tyler and Tyler

Pounds Regional Airport to obtain funding through the u.s. Department of.

Transportation's Small Community Air Service Development Program grant for

air service enhancements at Tyler Pounds Regional Airport.

An award of this grant will be a tremendous asset for Tyler and the entire East

Texas region. Tyler Smith County and surrounding counties have crucial goals

for continued development over the next five years in the areas of medical

research, medical care, higher education and industrial expansion. Airservice

enhancements, as a result of this program, will greatly increase the prospect for

our region to attract business and economic development opportunities.

Respectfullv, ()~~ .

Dwight Parsley, owner ( .

Texas East Gymnastics,LLC.

Tyler Airport Board Member
07/20/2013 09:23

July 20,2013

90367591500 ATHENS TRACTOR PAGE 01/01

The Honorable Anthony Foxx .

Secretary

US Department of Transportation

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE

Washington DC 20590

Re: Small Community Air Service Development Program

Docket DOT-OST-2013-0120

CFDA Number 20.930

Honorable Foxx,

I strongly support the efforts of the City of Tyler and Tyler Pounds Regional Airport to

obtain funding through the U.S. Department of Transportation's Small Community Air

Service Development Program grant for air service enhancements at Tyler Pounds

Regional Airport.

I live and have my business in Henderson CountyTexas and I use the Tyler Pounds

airport for business as well as personal travel. I find it to be very efficient. I don't have

to leave as early as when I fly out of Love Field or DFW in the Dallas area. It provides

me with convenient access and parking at a lower cost. I would like to see the airport

continue to grow and serve the entire East Texas region.

Respectfully,

'~.CJ#-

Burton Ouzts, President

Athens Tractor & Equipment, LLC
07/19/2013 12:25PM FAX 9036752200

July 10, 2013

The Honorable Anthony Foxx

Secretary

US Department of Transportation

1200 New Jersey Ave. SE

Washington DC 20590

IVAN SMITH ATHENS ~ OOOl/OOOZ

Re: Small Community Air Service Development Program

Docket DOT.OST~2013-0120

CFDA Number 20.930

Honorable Foxx,

il~\1.Joc..~'Q(;trOngIY supports the efforts of the City of Tyler and Tyler

Pounds Regional Airport to obtain funding through the U.S. Department of

Transportation's Small Community Air Service Development Program grant for air

service enhancements at Tyler Pounds Regional Airport.

An award of this grant will be a tremendous asset for Tyler and the entire East Texas

region. Tyler, Smith County and surrounding counties have crucial goals for continued

development over the next five years in the areas of medical research, medical care,

higher education and industrial expansion. Air service enhancements, as a result of this

program, will greatly increase the prospect for our region to attract business and

economic development opportunities.

(Please feel free to add any information in order to personalize the lettetj

, .
07/19/~0131~:~5PM FAX 9036752200

July 10, 2013

The Honorable Anthony Foxx

Secretary

US Department of Transportation

1200 New Jersey Ave, SE

Washington DC 20590

IVAN SHITH Al~NS ~ ooouoou~

Re: Small Community Air Service Development Program

Docket OOT-OST-2013-0120

CFDA Number 20.930

Honorable Foxx,

.M•.L Pe;-kr strongly supports the efforts of the City of Tyler and Tyler

Pounds Regional Airport to obtain funding through the u.s. Department of

Transportation's Small Community Air Service Development Program grant for air

service enhancements at Tyler Pounds Regional Airport.

An award of this grant will be a tremendous asset for Tyler and the entire East Texas

region. Tyler, Smith County and surrounding counties have crucial goals for continued

development over the next five years in the areas of medical research, medical care,

higher education and Industrial expansion. Air service enhancements, as a result of this

program, will greatly increase the prospect for our region to attract business and

economic development opportunities.

(Please feel free to add any information in order to pefSonali~e the letter)

Respectfully,

~K