FAA nixes thoughts of RV park on Fernandina Beach Municipal Airport property

Submitted by Suanne Z. Thamm

Reporter - News Analyst

December 22, 2017 12:23 p.m.

While many local residents and potential visitors found the concept of an island luxury RV park intriguing, it appears that the FAA has found it less so. In a December 21, 2017 email to Airport Manager Nathan Coyle, FAA official Stephen Wilson wrote:

“We’ve reviewed the RV Park proposal and are unable to approve its land use at FHB. As we discussed, these projects could be considered residential and would be incompatible with an airport. In addition, we would not support the zoning change to accommodate the proposal.”

Bob Allison, the local developer who has been attempting to find a place on the island for this project since 2013, wrote in an email to City Commissioners and staff:

“Needless to say we are disappointed.  Reversing the fortunes of the City's Golf Club, transplanting several hundred mature trees on to the island, and bringing about millions of dollars in positive economic impact to the City and to the Airport were all realizable goals.

“We extend heartfelt thanks to all of you who shared our lofty vision and who were willing to support this idea and project.  We really don't know how to thank you enough.  Perhaps there is another City owned property somewhere on the island where the pushback from neighbors will not be overwhelming.

“To all of you..... thank you again and we hope you have a very Merry Christmas.”

Editor's Note: Suanne Z. Thamm is a native of Chautauqua County, NY, who moved to Fernandina Beach from Alexandria,VA, in 1994. As a long time city resident and city watcher, she provides interesting insight into the many issues that impact our city. We are grateful for Suanne's many contributions to the Fernandina Observer.