The City of Prescott is providing information regarding the planned acquisition of land adjacent to Prescott Regional Airport in support of future airport infrastructure improvements.
The parcel is strategically located between existing City-owned airport parcels and directly adjacent to the airport property. Because of its location, the parcel is an important component of the airport’s long-term development and operational planning. The property is currently vacant and does not contain any existing residential or commercial structures.
Acquisition of the parcel would support planned airport improvements related to public safety, airport operations, and long-term economic development. One of the primary planned uses for the area is infrastructure to support seasonal U.S. Forest Service aerial firefighting aircraft, which would strengthen regional wildfire response capabilities serving Prescott and surrounding communities. The State of Arizona has recognized the importance of this effort and allocated funding in Fiscal Year 2026 to support infrastructure tied to aerial firefighting operations at Prescott Regional Airport.
The City has been evaluating options related to acquisition of the parcel since 2025. As part of that process, the City has pursued multiple avenues to reach a voluntary agreement. Because no agreement has been reached, the City has decided to move forward with the eminent domain process authorized under Arizona law. The City remains committed to following all applicable legal requirements throughout the process, including obtaining an independent appraisal and providing just compensation to the property owner as required by law.
Prescott Regional Airport plays a vital role in regional transportation, emergency response, and economic activity. These planned improvements are intended to help ensure the airport can continue serving those needs well into the future.