Texarkana, Texas – The Texarkana Regional Airport Authority said it will begin a nationwide search for a permanent airport director once the multi‑phase runway modernization project is substantially complete. The move follows a year‑long interim tenure by Russell Henderson, a native of Texarkana who has served in several leadership roles at the airport since 2009.
Project timeline and scope
Phase 1 of the improvement began on July 20 and includes a 500‑foot extension of the main 4‑22 runway and a six‑inch asphalt overlay, creating a longer, stronger surface capable of handling larger aircraft such as the Boeing 777. Phase 2 prepares the site for a new maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) facility, with Dean Baldwin Painting slated to be the first tenant. Phase 3 will widen taxiways Bravo and Delta, extend taxiway Delta, and convert runway 13/31 into a taxiway to serve the MRO complex.
The construction contract was awarded to Tatum Excavating Co., and the authority expects the upgrades to be finished sometime in 2027. Collectively, the three phases represent more than $63 million in public infrastructure improvements, according to Airport Authority Board chairman David Potter.
Economic impact and job outlook
Potter highlighted that the completed project will position the airport for continued growth, expanded aviation services, and future economic development. The authority estimates that the Dean Baldwin Painting operation could generate up to 160 jobs, $10 million in payroll, and roughly $14 million in overall local‑economy impact.
Leadership transition
Russell Henderson stepped into the interim director role in April after former director Paul Mehrlich resigned to become chief executive director of Gainesville Regional Airport in Florida. Henderson’s background includes four decades of aviation experience, beginning with service in the U.S. Air Force in 1986, followed by roles as operations director, deputy director, and airport security coordinator at Texarkana Regional Airport.
“Given the complexity and significance of the airport’s ongoing runway modernization project, the Authority believes it is in the best interest of both the organization and its future executive director to maintain continuity during construction,” Potter wrote in an email to the Gazette.
Next steps
When the construction milestones are reached, the authority will issue a formal request for proposals and begin evaluating candidates with experience in airport operations, infrastructure development, and community partnership. The search aims to secure a leader who can build on the momentum created by the runway upgrades and the forthcoming MRO facility.
Local businesses, civic leaders, and residents are encouraged to stay informed about the project’s progress and the upcoming director search, as the airport remains a key driver of economic activity and connectivity for the Texarkana region.
Original reporting: Texarkana Gazette — read the source article.
