Nacogdoches, Texas – The A.L. Mangham Jr. Regional Airport has completed a major runway rehabilitation, a cornerstone of a $5.4 million improvement plan announced by the airport’s new manager, Eric Foerster. Foerster, who began his tenure in June, described the work as “an operation” that has left the runway fully restored and added safety upgrades for the community.
Funding and scope of the project
The upgrade was financed primarily by a state grant that covered 90 percent of the total cost, with the city of Nacogdoches contributing the remaining 10 percent. The project included repaving the runway, installing new drainage systems, and constructing a runway safety area to meet modern aviation standards.
Manager’s background and vision
Foerster brings a diverse aviation background to the role. He has served as a pilot, chief pilot, flight‑training instructor, charter‑flight operator, and air‑ambulance crew member. After a brief retirement of only four days, he returned to the field when the airport manager position opened, calling it a “perfect fit.”
“It’s got a new look to it and a new feel. It’s like getting a new car and getting a new driveway for your house—just the newness of it,” Foerster said, emphasizing how the improvements will benefit both pilots and local residents.
Tenant perspective
Justin Pitcock, a tenant with HCH Aviation, confirmed that the runway had reached the end of its service life. “The runway, I think every 20 to 30 years, you need a new runway and this one was at the end of its life,” he explained. While he noted that the runway was not the worst he has ever seen, he agreed that the upgrades were necessary and welcomed the prospect of additional taxiways.
Pitcock also highlighted the airport’s role in community events. During the recent Stephen F. Austin State University Homecoming game, six aircraft performed a fly‑over, and pilots were able to taxi back safely after the display, showcasing the airport’s renewed capabilities.
Community impact
The fully rehabilitated runway positions the A.L. Mangham Jr. Regional Airport to better serve local businesses, emergency services, and private pilots. Improved drainage and safety areas reduce the risk of weather‑related closures, while the fresh pavement enhances aircraft performance and reduces wear on landing gear.
Foerster expressed optimism that the upgrades will attract more aviation activity to the region, supporting economic growth and providing a reliable hub for air‑ambulance operations that serve rural East Texas.
Looking ahead
Future plans include expanding taxiway infrastructure and exploring additional improvements that could further integrate the airport into Nacogdoches’ economic development strategy. The city’s modest financial contribution demonstrates a commitment to maintaining vital transportation assets without overburdening taxpayers.
Overall, the runway rehabilitation marks a significant milestone for the airport and the broader Nacogdoches community, reinforcing the city’s dedication to safe, modern, and accessible aviation facilities.
Original reporting: KLTV 7 Tyler (news) — read the source article.
