Sedona Airport's Fuel Capacity Expansion:
A Collaborative Triumph
A Summary of "Sedona Airport Increases Fuel Capacity," authored by Mike Schwanz for the Jan.-Feb. 2024 Issue of Airport Improvement Magazine
Sedona Airport (SEZ) in Arizona has taken a significant step forward in enhancing its infrastructure and service capabilities with the construction of a new, modern fuel storage facility. This development comes in response to the ongoing struggles to meet the growing demand for fuel, with increasing air traffic from a diverse clientele including individual operators, military, forest service, and corporate clients. The existing fuel farm, over three decades old, faced significant structural issues with tanks showing signs of rust and listing.
Garrett Gjerstad, Argus Business Unit Director, reflected on the urgency and importance of the project, stating, "We knew they needed this project done relatively quickly, due to the condition of the old fuel tanks." This sense of urgency focused the team to work closely and collaboratively to deliver timely and effective solutions for the airport's needs.
The Sedona Airport Fuel System Project, valued at $4.8 million, is comprised of two 15,000-gallon tanks for Jet A fuel, a 12,000-gallon tank for Avgas aviation fuel, and additional tanks for diesel and gasoline, aimed at modernizing the airport's fueling infrastructure, increasing fuel storage capacity, ensuring code compliance, minimizing environmental impact, enhancing safety measures, and improving operational efficiency.
Key partners in this endeavor include general contractor KEAR, environmental consultant Coffman, primary project consultant and construction manager Dibble, with Argus Consulting as the planning/design subconsultant and construction support. The project saw collaboration with Airport Manager Ed Rose, as well as several other firms for various components, highlighting a concerted effort among a team of experts to bring this project to fruition.
The project faced various challenges, including permitting delays and adverse weather conditions. However, proactive measures were taken to mitigate risks and ensure project completion.
Seth Newbold, Argus Project Manager, highlighted one of the project's obstacles and the team's commitment to overcoming it, noting, "The permitting process presented several challenges and delays. However, the engineering and construction team did a great job navigating the permitting process and providing the permitting agencies the responses they needed to move the project forward." Newbold's comment touches on the complexities involved in such a significant infrastructure project and the need for a dedicated team effort.
The new fuel infrastructure not only increases the airport's days-of-reserve fuel storage but also incorporates advanced features such as remote monitoring, automatic tank gauging systems, and improved safety protocols, positioning SEZ to better serve its clientele while addressing environmental and safety standards.
Through close cooperation and communication with airport authorities and trusted industry partners, the team delivered tailored solutions that addressed the unique challenges faced by Sedona Airport. With the successful completion of the upgraded fuel system, the airport is well-positioned to support future growth and better serve its customers, from individual operators to corporate clients.
Read the full article here.
