Search For New WA Airport Seeks Public Input

OLYMPIA, WA — The workgroup responsible for selecting where to place a new airport in the region is looking to hear from Washingtonians before sharing final recommendations with state lawmakers this summer.

The Commercial Aviation Coordinating Commission is tasked with developing short and long-term strategies to improve passenger and cargo service in the coming decades and is due to report to the legislature by June.

Commissioners are considering expanding operations at Paine Field and building a brand new airport in Pierce or Thurston counties. The Seattle-Tacoma International Airport welcomes an estimated 50 million passengers each year, and officials expect it will reach capacity sooner than later. Research from the Puget Sound Regional Council expects that number will double by 2050, and officials believe building a second airport would help SEA keep up with rapidly growing demand.

In recent months the commission has narrowed its search to two rural locations outside Tacoma and one outside of Olympia. The search has garnered considerable pushback, particularly in Pierce County.

Residents will have a chance to participate in an online open house through March 22, with two opportunities to weigh in on virtual meetings scheduled for March 8 and March 9.

>> More information on the process is available here.