If the debate of the past two years has taught us anything, it is that we must discourage residential zoning near the airport. The Johnson Street plan in High Point is a good example of how this process can work. That plan will restrict future residential zoning in airport glide paths. Our ground transportation planning must be compatible with our airport planning. Officials from Greensboro, High Point, Forsyth and Guilford counties and the state should complete a road plan for the airport area and begin to acquire rights of way.
Infrastructure planning is also important.
We should identify key industrial areas and ensure that they have access to water, sewer and good roads. Most important, we must address noise issues. Some airport neighbors have steadfastly opposed the hub project because they are concerned about noise. Obviously, airports will generate noise. Whether or not FedEx comes to the Triad, our airport must grow along with the community.