I have been reading about the airport expansion debate. It makes me sick to think the County government is even considering a $20 million airport expansion to accommodate a Missouri Company that might move 45 employees to the area.
Meanwhile, Warfield Complex in Sykesville is virtually empty. The project would cost about the same, and could potentially bring $50 million in taxes to the County. A private developer would pay for most of the development. Unfortunately, all of the developers have turned down the project because the County will not pay for roads and lighting, about $7 million.
A few months ago, Commissioner Doug Howard stated that Warfield was a priority for economic development. In fact, this was one of his campaign promises, based on the fact that it would bring numerous jobs to Sykesville and Eldersburg. He also highlighted that no one's neighborhood would be disrupted, something that is not true for our neighbors in Westminster.
Find out what's happening in Eldersburgwith free, real-time updates from Patch.
While the redevelopment of Warfield will not bring a lot of shiny airplanes to our town, I can think of at least 45 of my fellow citizens that would love to walk or bike to work, or at least spend 45 fewer minutes in the car. I guess it is not a big deal if you only drive to Center Street. How far do you drive to work?