​Independence (7S5)

The property was acquired in 1962 to '64 with construction of the runway begun in 1964 and completed in 1965 and the turf runway was opened in 1966.  This was accomplished with a federally funded project.  Within four years the need for additional drainage and an apron facility became apparent and these were constructed with state funds.  The turf runway could not accommodate the traffic and in 1972 a 30-foot wide oiled portion of the runway was constructed.  In 1975, with the aid of an ADAP grant from FAA, the runway was reconstructed and paved.  Shortly thereafter, the state installed a low intensity lighting system.  A parallel taxiway was constructed by the homeowners of the adjacent housing area as a part of their payment for access to the airport.  Airport has FBO and restaurant.