Site selection and feasibility study — Friedman Memorial Airport

Wood River Valley, Idaho

The Friedman Memorial Airport 2004 Master Plan Update recommended preparation of a feasibility study to locate an alternative airport site location, since the existing airport was severely constrained.  Due to our combined airport planning and GIS background, Mead & Hunt was asked to develop a GIS database consisting of more than 50 data layers representing environmental, transportation, natural resources, cultural, political, and historical information that was integral to analyses performed in the site selection process.  From the 16 initial sites identified, three were chosen for more detailed study. Graphics and data analyses generated from the GIS aided in the clear and concise presentation of study results to both the general public, the Federal Aviation Administration and the client. With the GIS database, a far wider range of site location possibilities could be thoroughly addressed in a shorter time-frame than in previous studies, enabling the client to make timely and more objective decisions.