The major improvement program for 3J1 has been approved and initial funding is in hand. The plans include an all new runway of at least 4,200' with GPS approaches, a large new operations building, a ramp area, and a comprehensive fueling center. Major land purchases are underway and most of the airspace easements have been contracted. The grading, fencing, taxiway, and runway designs are approved; first grading is expected in the spring of 2016. Two large new hangars on the current airport property have recently been approved. The County Administration expects to build hangars in the large new ramp area to demand. Both large commercial and private T-hangars are anticipated, but the ownership/operational model for them has not yet been determined---the Administration is open to the wishes of the regional flying community.
The airfield will be operated by Jasper County with the stated objective of being one of the most user friendly airports in the southeastern United States. They are actively encouraging and pursuing aviation related business interest in the facility.
In the meantime, there is some turnover in hangar space availability on a fairly regular and orderly basis at the airport. If you get a chance to come out, just ask around---everyone knows everyone. For example, I have room for one renter in my hangar and my current renter (RV-6) is departing at the end of the year. I'm pretty sure that there are other slots available as well, probably sooner. People are rapidly catching on to 3J1: Two existing hangars sold outright during the last month. FYI: The famous Tom of TS Flightlines is currently building his RV-7 in my hangar, so it's definitely an RV friendly location. For that matter, one F1 Rocket, one RV-8, two RV-9's, and one RV-12 have been built on the field. Another two RV-7's and two RV-8s are underway.
Lee...