City Council Considers 30 New Hangars to Boost Airport Revenue

ORANGEBURG, SC — Orangeburg officials are reviewing a proposal to construct 30 new airplane hangars at the municipal airport, part of a broader strategy to increase aviation activity and long-term city revenue.

The plan, presented to the Orangeburg City Council, was developed in collaboration with LH Construction Group and would tie each hangar to a 30-year lease agreement, ensuring sustained income for the city over time.

Hangars Would Expand Aviation Access

If approved, the airport expansion would allow Orangeburg to lease out the hangars to private tenants while collecting revenue from lease agreements, building-related taxes, and fees on aircraft stored at the airport.

The proposal comes as demand for hangar space remains high, with some residents reporting multi-year waitlists. “As soon as there’s a hangar available, I will be here as soon as I can,” said Orangeburg resident Jason Tremper.

In addition to serving private pilots, LH Construction’s owner Jason Goins emphasized the project’s community value, noting the region’s “dire” need for general aviation infrastructure. He said the development could also support a future flight school, enhancing workforce and educational opportunities in the area.

Timeline and Economic Outlook

Construction would not begin until tenants sign pre-lease or purchase agreements. If given the green light, the design phase would take approximately nine months, followed by a potential groundbreaking in spring or summer of 2026.

Goins, who is also a pilot, described the initiative as both a personal and professional investment. “We’re pilots, and we fly. We’re advocates of the general aviation community,” he told WLTX.

The city would benefit from the project not just through lease revenue, but also from increased aircraft activity and related tax income — potentially transforming the Orangeburg Airport into a more active hub for regional flights.

Resident Demand and Council’s Role

Several community members voiced support for the project, calling it long overdue. The final decision now rests with the city council, who are expected to deliberate further on the matter in upcoming meetings.

What do you think about expanding Orangeburg’s aviation footprint? Join the conversation in the comments on SaludaStandard-Sentinel.com.