Local and state elected officials gathered Thursday at MidCoast Regional Airport to assess the facility’s significant economic impact on Liberty County, the surrounding region, and the State of Georgia — including its strategic value to nearby Fort Stewart.
State Representatives Buddy DeLoach, John LaHood and Stephen Sainz; State Transportation Board Chair Ann Purcell; and GAA Board Member James Marquardt joined community leaders and airport officials to tour the facilities and discuss its growing role as a hub for economic development and military readiness. Fort Stewart Garrison Commander Colonel Marc Austin also gave a briefing on the economic impact of Fort Stewart and Hunter Army Airfield.
“MidCoast Regional Airport is more than just a transportation asset — it’s an engine of economic growth and a critical partner to Fort Stewart,” said Liberty County Board of Commissioners Chairman and Liberty County Development Authority Board Member Donald Lovette. “This facility brings together civilian, commercial, and military interests and enhances the strategic infrastructure in Liberty County and Coastal Georgia in a way that supports jobs.”
The airport, jointly operated by the Liberty County Development Authority, the City of Hinesville, and Liberty County, conjoins to Wright Army Airfield and together they serve both general aviation and military traffic.
In the early 2000s, recognizing the strategic value of the airfield and the growing aviation needs of the region, community leaders and the Department of Defense pursued a joint-use agreement. This agreement allowed for the shared use of Wright Army Airfield between military and civilian aviation, a highly successful model of cooperation.
The MidCoast Regional Airport officially opened to civilian operations in November 2007. The $11 million project was funded through a combination of federal, state, and local contributions, including support from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the Georgia Department of Transportation (GDOT).
During the visit, officials received briefings on current airport operations, ongoing infrastructure improvements, and long-term development plans. Discussions also emphasized the airport’s capacity to attract new business and industry to the region.
“Our continued investment in MidCoast Regional Airport is an investment in Georgia’s future,” said Representative Buddy DeLoach. “We are proud of the strong collaboration between our local governments and Fort Stewart, and we’re committed to ensuring this airport continues to thrive.”
The visit underscores a shared commitment among state and local leaders to support transportation infrastructure that fuels economic competitiveness and enhances military preparedness.
For more information about MidCoast Regional Airport, please visit https://Mcra.us.
Media Contact:
Katie Dye, Director of Marketing & Communications
Liberty County Development Authority
912.368.3356
katie.dye@comegrow.global
