County Approves Design-Build Talks for Airport Hangar, Upgrades

The Holmes County Airport Authority and county commissioners moved forward Jan. 9, 2026 with plans to modernize airport infrastructure by approving design-build negotiations with Weaver Commercial Contractors Inc. The authority voted to begin negotiations for construction of a new hangar and partial terminal upgrades, and commissioners committed county funds and authorized the procedural steps necessary to pursue a design-build contract following the recommendation of an evaluation committee.

Officials framed the initiative as a multi-million-dollar investment aimed at improving service capacity and making the airport more competitive for private, business, and transient aviation. The new hangar will increase aircraft storage and maintenance capacity, while targeted terminal improvements are intended to update passenger and operational areas. The authority and commissioners said those upgrades are intended to attract more aviation traffic and support local economic development.

The approval begins a formal negotiation phase with Weaver Commercial Contractors Inc., selected by an evaluation committee that reviewed proposals. Negotiations will focus on finalizing a design-build agreement that combines design and construction responsibilities under a single contract. Final contract approval and any additional funding authorizations will be required before construction can begin.

For Holmes County residents and businesses, the project could have several practical effects. During construction the county can expect increased local contracting and construction-related employment tied to a multi-million-dollar project. Once complete, expanded hangar capacity and upgraded terminal facilities could make the airport more attractive for business travel, aircraft maintenance, and transient flights, potentially increasing fuel sales, hangar leases, and patronage of nearby services such as hotels and restaurants.

The decision aligns county leadership with broader local economic development goals to diversify infrastructure and promote connectivity. Commissioners’ commitment of funds signals a willingness to allocate public resources to transportation infrastructure they view as an engine for private-sector activity. The use of a design-build procurement model is intended to streamline delivery, potentially reducing schedule and cost risk compared with separate design and construction contracts.

Next steps in the process include completion of negotiations, final contract approvals, and clarification of a construction schedule and funding timeline. County officials have emphasized the project’s economic intent; residents and local businesses will be watching for details on timing, construction impacts, and opportunities for local contractors as the county moves from negotiation to implementation.