Airport authority OK’s drag racing event

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The Jamestown Regional Airport Authority agreed to once again host the annual Jamestown Drag Racing Association races this summer, provided the Federal Aviation Administration approves.

“It’s a wonderful afternoon for the airport,” said Matt Leitner, airport manager, emphasizing how well the event goes each year.

The group gives $2,000 to the airport to host the event to offset any wear and tear on the facilities, and the Racing Association ensures that everything is cleaned up and put in order when the racing is finished.

“I would like to comment on how well the association behaves itself out here, and that the cleanup has been both expedient and done well,” agreed Keith Veil, a member of the airport authority.

Pending FAA approval, the event will take place on July 27 and 28 this year, said Leon Westerhausen, president of the JDRA.

The event gets larger each year, he said in an interview following the meeting, and a new motorcycle class will be added to the drag racing this year in response to increased demand.

Katie Andersen, Jamestown mayor and JRAA member, suggested using the event to benefit the airport more through increased exposure.

Hosting an open house, offering tours of the airport and giving out information in packets to race participants are all under consideration for the popular annual event, which draws hundreds and perhaps thousands of people to the airport every year.

“We’re getting a lot of interest,” said Brian Kamlitz, vice president of JDRA.

In other actions Wednesday, the JRAA:

* discussed possible drainage options for its wetlands mitigation project, which will help decrease the likelihood of bird strikes on airplanes.

* agreed on the need to cultivate people’s interest in flying, and that better communication with customers should be included in the airport’s strategic plan.

* discussed setting standards and policies for leases at the airport in the future.

Sun reporter Kari Lucin can be reached at 701-952-8453 or by

email at

klucin@jamestownsun.com

Tags: local news, news