Leaders at Eastern Iowa Airport are raising serious concerns about a potential Alliant Energy utility plant planned near the airport's main runway. The proposed location, just outside Fairfax near 76th Avenue Southwest, is raising red flags about flight safety and operational disruptions.
Concerns over Height and Plume Impact
Airport Director Marty Lenss expressed worries about the plant's stacks, which could reach heights of 250 feet. He explained that the plumes emitted from these stacks could create weather conditions leading to enhanced fog, potentially shutting down airport operations. CID airport currently operates with a Category One approach system, limiting landings in low visibility.
Turbulence Risks and Runway Proximity
Lenss also highlighted the danger of turbulence caused by upward air velocity and temperature differences around the stacks. This turbulence could pose a significant risk to aircraft, especially during take-off and landing. Furthermore, the plant's proximity to a planned third runway, less than two miles at its shortest length, amplifies these concerns. "Today it's planned at 7400 feet, which is just over a mile to the facility," Lenss stated.
Study Approved to Assess Impact
Recognizing the potential impact, the airport commission approved a nearly $70,000 study to thoroughly explore the implications of the proposed plant on airport operations. Lenss emphasized the incompatibility of such a facility near an airport, stating that if the situation were reversed, they would immediately abandon the site.
The airport is working to ensure that all potential risks are carefully evaluated and mitigated before the Alliant Energy plant proceeds, highlighting the importance of prioritizing safety and operational efficiency.