By Steve Kemme
The Cincinnati Enquirer

HAMILTON - Butler County is trying to buy 34 acres for its airport to satisfy the demand for more hangars and more taxiways.

The county, which wants to increase its corporate aircraft business, is close to finishing an agreement to buy a 10-acre tract adjacent to the Butler County Regional Airport-Hogan Field, and is negotiating to purchase 20-acre and 4-acre parcels.

"These land purchases will allow us to continue our growth," said Ron Davis airport administrator.

County commissioners approved leases Monday for the last four open hangars.

"All of our hangars are filled," Commissioner Courtney Combs said. "We have enough prospects to fill the hangars that will be built on the 10-acre site."

The 550-acre airport is a key tool for the county in its quest to attract businesses. . Earlier this year a new, $1.2 million airport terminal was dedicated.

County officials want to extend Bobmeyer Road, where the airport's entrance is located, by 1‡ miles to connect with the Ohio 4 Bypass. That would provide better access to the airport from the Michael A. Fox Highway and Interstate 75.

Early next year, Butler officials will seek the Federal Aviation Administration's approval of the road extension and entrance improvements.

Another important development at the airport next year will be installation of a $300,000 glide slope device to help planes land safely in bad weather.

Butler County, Fairfield, Hamilton and Fairfield Township have agreed to contribute money to pay for the glide slope. Commissioners are hoping West Chester officials also will agree to contribute.

The county is talking with Hamilton about the possibility of the city's building a firehouse on Tylersville Road with access to the airport runway.

The firehouse could house the new paramedic unit the city will be establishing.

E-mail skemme@enquirer.com