An issue identified in the 2030 Greater Cook County Comprehensive Plan that could have a huge impact on the local economy was the need to update the Cook County Airport.
The local leadership responded and stepped up to the plate.
The renovation of the existing airport began in 2010. The project was spearheaded by then-Cook County Commissioner Michael Dinnerman (who also has served as Airport Authority chairman) and was completed in 2014. Cook County now has a facility that would rival any general aviation airport in Georgia.
Furthermore, the facility was constructed by leveraging dollars from federal and state funds (United States Department of Agriculture, Georgia Department of Transportation, and OneGeorgia Authority), and hotel/motel tax dollars to fund the interior museum. No money came from local property taxes.
The airport now offers a 4,000- and 5,001-foot crosswind runway, 26 hangars (which includes 22 T-hangars, the lack of which was listed as an issue in the Comprehensive Plan), 24/7 jet fuel and aviation gas, and a repair station. Azalea Aviation, LLC, a kit aircraft manufacturer and aircraft maintenance service provider, moved to the Cook County Airport from the Valdosta Airport in March 2016.
The airport terminal houses a museum in memory of Donald “Bush” Bryan, a retired U.S. Air Force lieutenant colonel and decorated veteran of World War II. Bryan lived in Adel for more than 30 years and was a former member of the famed Eighth Army Air Force, or “Mighty Eighth.” Bryan flew for the 352d Fighter Group and was their leading ace, being officially credited with 13 downed enemy aircraft - including five in one day during a harrowing 15-minute dogfight. Bryan was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross.
The terminal also houses the offices of the Cook County Economic Development Commission. The state-of-the-art Board and Conference room has hosted many national and state dignitaries, such as Georgia Gov. Nathan Deal and United States Senator Johnny Isakson, as well as economic development prospects. The Adel Industrial Development Authority and Cook County Economic Development Commission hold their meetings there. The public is also encouraged to use the conference room when available.
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