Township Board: Wednesday, January 10, 2024 @ 5pm Leelanau Township Board (Woolsey Airport Presentation)

**Executive Summary of the Woolsey Airport Terminal Preservation and Rehabilitation Plan**

**History of the Terminal**
The Woolsey Airport Terminal, rooted in the legacy of World War I pilot Clinton Woolsey, has historical significance that dates back to the 1930s when Byron Woolsey donated land for its establishment in memory of his son. The original structure has weathered the years but remains a key part of the region’s aviation history. The architectural integrity of the terminal is at risk, prompting a need for preservation and rehabilitation efforts.

**Current Conditions and Proposed Plan**
The terminal currently faces critical structural issues, including cracked concrete, corroding steel lintels, and failing arched concrete beams. Immediate structural repairs are essential to prevent further deterioration and to restore both the terminal’s integrity and its weatherproofing capabilities. The proposed plan aims to address safety and durability through various restoration tasks such as roof repairs, masonry work, and upgrades to electrical systems, with a projected cost ranging from $280,000 to $450,000 depending on the scope of optional historic restoration improvements.

**Funding and Timelines**
Recognizing the urgency of the repairs, the plan emphasizes securing funding and prioritizing township approval for the proposed project. With at least $300,000 needed by June 1, 2024, the Parks & Recreation Committee recommends a financial commitment from township funds to support the rehabilitation, facilitating a swift fundraising process. Approval of the project will enable the initiation of repairs as early as 2024, ensuring the preservation of the Woolsey Airport Terminal for future generations.