Meadowlake community anxious for development

Contrary to the not-in-my-backyard attitudes of some residential neighborhoods, the Meadowlake community appears ready -- even anxious -- for new development to begin.

Jack Dhooghe, president of the 200-member Meadowlake Airport Association, sees a mixed-use center such as Meadowlake Commons, just north of Judge Orr Road and Highway 24, as a long overdue benefit for the airport's users and nearby residents.

"There are already a lot of houses around, including those who live at the Meadowlake Airport," he said. "We have hundreds of aircraft fly in here every month, and a lot of the pilots would take advantage of a hotel, restaurants or even a car rental facility. I think we're ready."

Runway expansion at Meadowlake, which qualifies as a Federal Aviation Administration-approved "reliever" airport, was enabled by a $3.5 million 500-acre land purchase in 2004. After completion during the next five to 10 years, the expansion will further increase the facility's usage by corporate jets and small aircraft.

"It would be good for business to have commercial development right off Judge Orr," he said.

Falcon resident Lynne Bliss is chairwoman of the Falcon-Peyton Master Plan committee, which is studying future of development and issues facing residents of east El Paso County. She sees pent-up demand for commercial services as well as the need for adequate water and public safety services as the keys to quality of life.

"We've got a grocery, four banks and two nail salons, and a lot of fast food restaurants, but we don't have anything for families to do," she said. "We'd also like to see more employment centers open out this way."

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