Eastern Iowa Airport Raises Concerns Over Proposed Alliant Utility Plant

Impact on Airport Operations

CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa – Eastern Iowa Airport officials are expressing significant concerns regarding a potential new Alliant Utility Plant planned for construction less than five miles from the airport’s main runway. The facility is being considered near 76th Avenue Southwest, just outside Fairfax.

Safety and Operational Challenges

Airport Director Marty Lenss revealed that they became aware of the proposed utility plant only last month. In response, the airport commission has authorized a nearly $70,000 study to evaluate the potential effects on airport operations. “It quickly became apparent that this is not a compatible land use next to an airport,” Lenss stated.

The proposed plant, with stacks reaching heights of over 250 feet, raises multiple safety concerns. “The plumes released by these stacks can create certain weather conditions, leading to increased fog that could force the airport to shut down operations,” Lenss explained. The airport relies on a Category I approach system, meaning pilots are restricted from landing in low visibility conditions.

Turbulence and Future Developments

Another major concern is the turbulent air conditions generated by the plant. “There’s incredible upward air velocity at different temperatures, which creates turbulence. An aircraft encountering that could face serious challenges,” Lenss noted. Additionally, plans for a third runway—projected to be completed in proximity to the plant—heighten the urgency of these concerns. This runway would be located less than two miles from the plant at its closest point, significantly impacting safety and operational efficiency.

“If we were to reverse the scenario—imagining that the airport existed before the utility plant—we wouldn’t even consider placing a facility like this nearby,” Lenss stated.

Regulatory Implications

Lenss cautioned that the presence of the utility plant could jeopardize the airport’s ability to secure federal discretionary grants. “Failing to maintain our grant assurances, a federal requirement, could severely limit our funding opportunities for future airport developments,” he explained.

Alliant Energy’s Response

In a statement, Alliant Energy acknowledged the early stages of site selection for a combined-cycle natural gas facility. The utility emphasized its commitment to maintaining stability in base rates and expressed intentions to collaborate with the cities of Fairfax and Cedar Rapids to assess the plant’s impact on airport operations.

"Throughout this process, we are eager to work alongside the airport and local stakeholders to ensure a balanced energy approach that supports both community needs and operational safety," Alliant stated.

Conclusion

As this situation unfolds, the Eastern Iowa Airport and Alliant Energy are gearing up for discussions aimed at assessing the compatibility of the proposed utility plant with airport operations. The concerns raised by airport officials highlight the importance of considering safety and operational integrity when developing infrastructure projects in close proximity to critical facilities like airports.

In a rapidly evolving energy sector, it becomes crucial that stakeholders balance their developments with community safety and regulatory responsibilities. The outcomes of these discussions will play a crucial role in shaping the future of both the airport and the proposed utility plant.