Everett’s Paine Field could have commercial passenger terminal by 2017

The company trying to build a commercial passenger terminal at Everett’s Paine Field is shooting for the first flights to begin as early as the end of 2017.

Propeller Airports wants to break ground on the terminal by the end of 2016, according to information released this week.

“Bringing a terminal of this quality to our community as a public-private partnership saves precious taxpayer dollars and brings considerable economic benefits; this is a win for residents and businesses in Everett and Snohomish County,” said Everett Mayor Ray Stephanson. “We look forward to continuing to work with our partners to fully utilize our resources while helping travelers avoid hours of traffic and headaches.”

The New York-based company reached an agreement with Snohomish County in 2015. Though advocates of the area attempted to block the project, a court ruling earlier this year cleared the way for the terminal.

The Daily Herald reports if the plans are approved, a 30-year lease of 10.7 acres could be signed. The Herald says the company has three years to complete an environmental study and to design the terminal. Propeller Airports will submit its application to “shortly” in order to comply with the Washington State Environmental Policy Act.

The 29,000-square-foot terminal will include two gates and a passenger lounge. The Herald reports there would be approximately 8,340 takeoffs and landings per year.

Fentress will design the terminal, according to Propeller Airports.

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