Baker Talks About Expanding Albert Whitted Airport

St. Petersburg Mayor Rick Baker spoke about his plans for expanding Albert Whitted airport to the president of the Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association (AOPA).

Long-range plans include adding a terminal and possibly developing an on-airport restaurant that would give the broader community a reason to come down to the waterfront and make use of the airport. The mayor is considering other ideas to make the airport a community focal point.

Baker told the AOPA that he plans to pursue commitments for funding from the Florida Department of Transportation and wants to go after FAA Airport Improvement Program funds.

The local Sierra Club group (the Suncoast Group) found itself deeply split over the future of the airport a few years ago and, arguably, has never effectively reunited since.