Pavements and mechanical systems that could have been repaired or refurbished for a fraction of the cost must now be removed and replaced. The greatest need at the airports is a reliable stream of capital funding for maintenance and rehabilitation. Continued deferment of such projects will dramatically affect the safety and utility of the airports and may prompt the FAA at some point to declare that Johnson County has not fulfilled its obligations-making the County ineligible for future grant funding. Infrastructure will continue to deteriorate to the extent it can no longer be safely used. At some point, the airports will have to be closed.
All infrastructure has a limited life.
That life can be dramatically shortened through inadequate maintenance and preservation. Conversely, useful life can be preserved with adequate investment. Implement an aggressive rehab and replacement program. Life-cycle costs can be reduced through investment in modern design and materials. Safety, utility, and quality of service can be improved.