government
PHOTOS: Golden shovels in hand, Aspen airport breaks ground on modernization project
By Austin Colbert Follow
acolbert@aspentimes.com at Aspen Times
· July 16, 2026
· 5 min read
The Airport Modernization Project — a voter-approved effort to overhaul the largely outdated Aspen /Pitkin County Airport — officially broke ground on Wednesday with a special ceremony both inside and outside the Airport Operations Center building.
Central to the modernization project will be a...
Key takeaway Central to the modernization project will be a reconstructed runway, with the current one set to be demolished next summer — the airport will be completely closed from April 4 to Nov.
Why this matters in Aspen News
The Aspen/Pitkin County Airport modernization project's groundbreaking marks a significant step forward for the community, with far-reaching implications for the local economy and residents. The reconstructed runway and new terminal building will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for visitors and locals alike, but it's the airport's closure from April 4 to November 19, 2027, that will have the most immediate impact on daily life in Aspen. During this period, alternative transportation arrangements will need to be made, which may affect local businesses, particularly those reliant on air travel. The project's timeline, stretching into 2030, also underscores the need for careful planning and coordination among local authorities, including the Pitkin County Board of Commissioners and the Aspen City Government, to mitigate potential disruptions and ensure a smooth transition to the new airport facilities.
About this story
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Category: government ·
Published: July 16, 2026 ·
Source: Aspen Times ·
Reading time: 5 min
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Frequently asked about this story
What is this story about? The Airport Modernization Project — a voter-approved effort to overhaul the largely outdated Aspen/Pitkin County Airport — officially broke ground on Wednesday with a special ceremony both inside and outside the Airport Operations Center building.
Central to the modernization project will be a...
When was this published? This article was first published on July 16, 2026 by Aspen Times and curated for Aspen News readers.
Who reported this story? This story was reported by Austin Colbert Follow
acolbert@aspentimes.com at Aspen Times. To learn more about how Aspen News selects and reviews stories, see our editorial standards .
Where can I find related coverage? See more government coverage from Aspen News, or browse our daily briefing and topic hubs .
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