Airport reno opens doors for Marlin
When the Experimental Aircraft Association reached out to Marlin City Manager, Cedric Davis, about using the Marlin Airport T-15, neither party knew the partnership that came out of it would lead to so many opportunities for the City of Marlin and the community overall.
Marlin Airport T-15 was opened in 1960 and is located next to the New City Lake, about three-fourths miles north of downtown. It has been neglected over the years by various administrations, and up until recently was seldomly used by anyone other than one long-time tenant and community members electing to use the grounds for drag racing.
Davis had noted the airport as an area of interest since the time of his arrival but had yet to make headway on the project with so many other endeavors underway.
“When I heard Maryann say something about the airport, I was quick to tell her to send me the call,” he told reporters. “I’d been wanting to look into it, but I definitely wasn’t expecting to get something this big.
Chris Sims, Vice President for Chapter 34 of the Experimental Aircraft Association, approached the City with the idea to host a “fly-in” event. This would be a community event where out-of-town aviators can visit to experience Marlin. The idea of the event fit well with Marlin’s economic development plan, who's next focus was on tourism, but called for a number of upgrades to the space before it could be used.
“It was overgrown with vegetation, T-hangars in need of repairs, and the runway and ramp soon needing paint and a top-coat,” said Sims, who evaluated the area beforehand. “But, the potential for this airport was huge.”
The event, now planned for Nov. 7, was proposed along with a “Young Eagles Rally,” explained to city officials as an opportunity to get the youth of the community involved and possibly interested in a career in aviation. Around 30-40 kids between the ages of eight and 17 would be able to take a free flight and would even be allowed to take the controls if they felt comfortable doing so.
Not wanting to pass on such an awesome opportunity for the city, community, and children, Marlin City Council opted to go ahead with the necessary renovations, delighted that TxDOT would be reimbursing some of the funds used.
The City of Marlin, as well as EAA34 and the airport’s tenant, have put in an immense amount of time and effort since the joint land surveying to get it ready for the event planned for Nov. 7. One major problem that has been tackled is airplane parking. With the Fly-in expected to bring-in at least 30 planes, there was a question of where they would all be able to park while allowing for safe taxiing on the runway. Along with cleared areas near the centric area of the airport, an area for an additional 10 aircrafts has been cleared at the end of the runway.
While in town on various occasions, the EAA members noted other opportunities to expand aviation in Marlin. Representatives spoke to Marlin High School Students earlier this month, expanding their knowledge on the different options available to those interested in aviation.
“This is an important aspect of our program as we want to offer relationships and mentoring for
young people who have no idea how to navigate the aviation maze,” the pilot explained. “With a successful first Fly-In, we hope to develop confidence and experience for future Marlin Airport events.”
Though nothing has been set in place yet, a possible aviation program at MHS was mentioned as well.
“We want to get the kids interested in planes and flying,” the North Texas man stated. “There’s going to be a pilot shortage soon and there’s so many jobs out there.”
The New City Lake has also been a topic of discussion, actually starting before EAA showed interest in the airport. The Marlin City Council had spoken many times about the different options available to them for the lake, including adding a recreational area, improving boating access, and possibly a children’s area.
With the influx of attention from the EAA, the idea was brought forth to use the lake for seaplanes; the first landing in Marlin Lake waters this week.
“I was actually looking on the map for airports with a lake next to it when I found this place,” Sims said. “We have been looking for somewhere for the seaplanes to be able to come and go easily.”
He noted that there would be obstacles along the way, but he could visualize the lake being used as a seaplane base.
“There’s so much potential here,” the aviator exclaimed. “It’s just getting everything into place and seeing how this first event goes.”
Both he and Davis have spoken on how well the other has communicated along the process and each look forward to working together in the future.
“Chris sees something here,” Davis said. “He sees what we’re trying to do with this community.”
Sims, not knowing that Davis said this, repeated the same.
“The City of Marlin & EAA34 are working hard to create a diamond from the rough,” the VP assured reporters. “Ultimately, it will be the people of Marlin and the aviation community that will
benefit as we do our part to resurrect this little jewel.”
The Pancake Breakfast, Fly-In and Young Eagles Rally will take place on Nov. 7 from 9 a.m -3 p.m. Breakfast will be served on a donation basis.
Young Eagle Flights will start at 10:30 and come with a free six-month EAA junior membership. Those interested must register before the event at www.youngeaglesday.org?1575. A parent and/or guardian must remain on-site for the duration of the flight and be there to receive the Young Eagle upon their return. Flight will take Eagles over the City of Marlin and last about 20 minutes. There are 300-500 kids from the surrounding areas expected to attend.
For more information on airport renovation, the New City Lake, or more information about the upcoming event, contact City Secretary Maryann Waddle at citysecretary@marlintx.net or by calling (254)883-1450.