AASHTO Journal - Local Kentucky Airport Gets New Aircraft Fueling System

The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet recently helped build a new $1 million aircraft fueling system at the Gallatin County Airport in Sparta, KY.

[Above photo by the Kentucky Department of Aviation]

Officially opened in the summer of 2023, the Gallatin County Airport is located near the I-71 corridor that connects Louisville and Cincinnati. It serves the needs of general aviation and is expected to grow to become a home base for over 20 aircraft and host approximately 13,000 takeoffs annually.

Work on this fuel system project – funded through the Kentucky Department of Aviation, a division of the KYTC – began in May and was completed in October.

KYTC said more improvements are underway at the airport, including the current construction of aircraft hangars and a terminal building, which will also spur an increase in the number of aircraft based at the airport once completed.

Gov. Beshear. Photo via the Kentucky Governor’s Office.

“Investments like this ensure our airports continue to boost economic growth for communities like Gallatin County,” said Governor Andy Beshear (D) in a statement. “With modern infrastructure in place, local businesses, flight students and visitors now benefit from enhanced access and convenience, helping drive jobs and tourism across the region and state.”

“This new fuel system is a runway to opportunity for Gallatin County,” added KYTC Secretary Jim Gray. “By enhancing refueling services, we strengthen the airport’s role in supporting business aviation, flight training activities, and increased connectivity in general aviation across northern Kentucky.”

Other state departments of transportation are overseeing similar projects for airports in their respective regions.

For example, the New York State Department of Transportation recently hosted a grand opening event for a new terminal at the Watertown International Airport, located in the state’s North Country Region.

The $28 million project built a new 25,000-square-foot terminal constructed as part of an ongoing redevelopment of the airport and features a spacious lobby, upgraded ticketing and baggage claim areas, a new passenger jet bridge, and other amenities.