Highlights from recent WAYPOINTS.
For the full version of the May 12, 2025 edition, click here.

WSDOT AVIATION 2025-2027 GRANT OPPORTUNITY

WSDOT Aviation has just announced that they are accepting grant applications for the first round of the Airport Aid Grant Program.  The deadline for applications is May 30, 2025.  Click here for details.

WA Legislative Bills Status

During the March 25th Aviation Caucus, Rep. Dent presented a list showing the status of the legislative bills affecting aviation.  Click here to view the status of these bills.

Air Race Classic Comes to Spokane

After many years, the Air Race Classic is coming to Spokane. This historical all-women's air race began in 1929 and has continued every year since, only pausing during WWII. The 2025 race begins in Fairhope, AL continuing through 11 states, with the terminus at Felts Field Airport in Spokane. Typically, 50 or more general aviation planes from all over the United States compete, each with a pilot and copilot.  

The ARC begins on June 17 and ends in Spokane on June 20. If you would like to help volunteer at the Terminus or if you know women who would like to enter the race, go to www.airraceclassic.org.    

Notice of Funding Opportunity: Rural and Tribal Assistance Grant Program

Per Eric L. Johnson, WSDOT Aviation Deputy Director, it looks like many of our rural airports would be eligible for this funding opportunity:

The U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT’s) Build America Bureau (Bureau) released a Notice of Funding Opportunity (NOFO) for the Rural and Tribal Assistance Pilot Program, created by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The NOFO offers $27 million in technical assistance grants to rural and tribal communities for the planning and design phase development of transportation projects.
 
Applications will be accepted beginning Tuesday, March 4, 2025, at 2:00 PM ET.

A LETTER FROM THE PRESIDENT

I am sincerely honored to have been elected President of WAMA for 2025. It is my privilege to serve in this capacity, as I am committed to exploring innovative ways to enhance our organization and effectively address the needs of our members.

In alignment with WAMA’s Mission Statement, which emphasizes our commitment to strengthening airport management and fostering professionalism among airport operators in Washington State, I look forward to continuing our alliance.

As we prepare for 2025, I am excited about our board and committee members' ongoing commitment to advancing our organization's goals. During my presidency, I plan to focus on enhancing our processes, continuing outreach to small and rural airports, and increasing student engagement in WAMA.

I look forward to working collaboratively with all of you to further our mission and make a meaningful impact in our industry. Thank you for your trust and support.
 

Lorene Robinson, C.M., ACE
President, Washington Airport Management Association

AN INVITATION FROM JOSHUA MARCY

On behalf of the Washington Airport Management Association (WAMA), I am requesting your support for our upcoming 2025 Annual Conference, which will take place in beautiful Chelan, Washington, from May 19-21 in Chelan, WA. This conference brings together professionals from airports across Washington State to share knowledge, discuss industry trends, and strengthen our network. This year, we are excited to host sessions that will promote collaboration, innovation, and safety within airport management.  

One of the highlights of our conference is our drawing, which offers attendees the chance to win memorable prizes while fostering a positive and interactive environment. We would be very grateful if your airport would consider donating a prize/gift to our drawing. Whether it’s branded items, travel vouchers, gift cards, or unique experiences, your contribution would help make the conference memorable and engaging for our attendees.
 
Please let us know if you are interested in contributing or if you have any questions. If so, please contact me, Joshua Marcy @ Joshua.Marcy@snoco.org. Thank you very much for considering this opportunity to support WAMA’s mission and the continued success of our annual conference. We look forward to the possibility of partnering with you.

Warm regards,

Joshua W. Marcy AAE, ASE | WAMA Past President

Thank you to all of our sponsors, JUB, DOWL, Paine Field Snohomish County, CivilAir Engineers PLLC, Precision Approach Engineering, Applied Pavement Technology, Walla Walla Regional Airport, Arlington Municipal Airport and the City of Arlington, Century West Engineering, The Port of Skagit, and Morrison-Maierle for sponsoring the biweekly Waypoints news bulletin. Your support means so much to us.