Alcoa, TN, October 19, 2025
News Summary
The Alcoa City Commission has finalized the approval of a rezoning request by the McGhee Tyson Airport Authority to construct a new fuel farm facility on 7.5 acres at the Benford Height subdivision. With the area’s suitability confirmed, the plan is set to support the airport’s expansion, which includes the addition of 3,500 parking spaces to the existing garage. Challenges persist with the ongoing construction, specifically with foundation drilling, but a significant contingency fund is in place for unforeseen costs.
Alcoa – The Alcoa City Commission has officially concluded the final public hearing and readings regarding a rezoning request by the McGhee Tyson Airport Authority (MKAA) to enable the construction of a new fuel farm facility. The site encompasses 7.5 acres identified in airport master planning documents as ideal for future development, located within the Benford Height subdivision, specifically at the intersection of Flagship Knox Drive and Debra Court.
The MKAA requested the rezoning of 6 acres for industrial use along with an additional 1.27 acres which will serve as a required 50-foot buffer zone per city regulations. Alcoa City Manager Bruce Applegate has stated that sufficient distance exists between the proposed facility and the nearest residential areas, alleviating concerns about potential disruptions to local residents.
The rezoning request was unanimously recommended by the Alcoa Regional Planning Commissioners before it moved on to the City Commission. Following the two readings and a public hearing, the City Commission approved the request, facilitating the next steps for the airport expansion project.
Additional City Actions
In conjunction with the approval of the rezoning, the commissioners also passed four separate agenda items supporting city participation in state and federal grant programs. Additionally, the city recognized Shelly Wilson, a dedicated staff member of 20 years, for her service by presenting her with a commemorative plaque.
McGhee Tyson Airport Expansion Projects
The MKAA is currently engaged in significant expansion efforts at McGhee Tyson Airport, including a $185 million project to expand the airport parking garage. This expansion is set to add an impressive 3,500 parking spaces to accommodate the rising number of travelers. However, due to construction delays linked to inclement weather and foundational challenges, the anticipated completion date for this new parking garage has been pushed back to April 19, 2027.
Challenges have arisen as the drilling of pilings for the garage’s foundation reveals difficulties with vertical rock and underlying soil voids, prompting a reconsideration of the drilling methodology. So far, 16 out of the required 98 pilings have been drilled, with 12 of them poured. In the meantime, utility relocation and roadway work are currently underway during the interruption in drilling activities.
Moreover, a $13 million contingency fund is available to address any unexpected costs associated with the construction. Notably, a sinkhole that formed on June 12 at the airport, linked to the ongoing construction work, has been successfully repaired.
Anticipated Traffic Increases
As the airport prepares for the upcoming fall break, officials are anticipating one of the busiest months on record, with substantial increases in air traffic expected. The McGhee Tyson Airport has been rapidly advancing its capabilities by bringing in new airlines and enhancing its infrastructure to better manage growing passenger volumes.
Key Features of McGhee Tyson Airport Expansion
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Airport Authority | McGhee Tyson Airport Authority (MKAA) |
| Land Size | 7.5 acres |
| Rezonings Requested | 6 acres for industrial use and 1.27 acres for buffer zone |
| Expansion Cost | $185 million |
| New Parking Spaces | 3,500 additional spaces |
| Completion Date | April 19, 2027 |
| Contingency Fund | $13 million |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
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Additional Resources
- The Daily Times: McGhee Tyson Airport Garage Delay
- Knox News: Federal Shutdown Impact on Travelers
- PSA Airlines: New Maintenance Base in Knoxville Area
- WBIR: Major Milestone at McGhee Tyson Airport
- Google Search: McGhee Tyson Airport expansion
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