Taking Shape in the Rockies: Building a New Aviation Facility in Colorado
Surrounded by the Rocky Mountains, a new aviation facility is taking shape at Garfield County Airport in Rifle, Colorado.
VJS Construction Services is helping bring this private fixed-base operator (FBO) facility to life, combining aircraft hangar space, passenger amenities, fueling infrastructure, and operational support facilities into one comprehensive aviation development.
With more than 15 years of aviation construction experience and projects at over 35 airports nationwide, VJS understands the specialized requirements that go into building these facilities. The 76,450-square-foot project draws on that experience, from hangar design considerations and extensive site infrastructure to material procurement and local permitting. Working closely with project partners, the VJS team has focused on addressing challenges early, identifying cost-saving opportunities, and keeping construction moving forward.
Planning Ahead for Specialized Aviation Needs
Aviation facilities require careful planning to accommodate aircraft operations, ground movement, fueling, and passenger needs.
Decisions made early in the process can have a significant impact on construction costs, operational efficiency, and long-term functionality.
VJS became involved during preconstruction, providing design-assist services to evaluate building dimensions, improve constructability, and identify opportunities to reduce costs.
One key focus was the pre-engineered metal building. By coordinating procurement early, the team addressed potential tariff-related cost increases while reducing the risk of schedule delays.
The team also evaluated concrete thickness and subgrade design to balance performance requirements with cost efficiency. Specialized hangar considerations, including door track drainage systems, were incorporated into the planning process to address the unique demands of aircraft facilities.
These early decisions helped establish a more efficient approach to construction while keeping the facility's operational needs at the forefront as work progresses.
Bringing Together Aircraft Operations and Passenger Amenities
Designed to support both aircraft and the people behind every flight, the new facility will bring together a range of aviation services and amenities once complete.
The FBO will include reception and waiting areas, passenger lounges, conference and breakout rooms, offices, restrooms, a break room, and dedicated line service support spaces. Beyond the building itself, the project includes substantial infrastructure to support daily airport operations.
Site improvements include asphalt paving, roadwork, concrete sidewalks, exterior lighting, and a helipad. A 22,035-square-foot deicing pad with 10-inch-thick concrete will support aircraft operations, while security fencing, gates, and signage will help define and secure the facility.
Together, these elements will create a functional aviation environment designed to serve passengers, flight crews, and airport operations.
Coordinating Construction Across State Lines
Located approximately 1,200 miles from VJS' headquarters in Pewaukee, Wisconsin, the project demonstrates the value of combining specialized aviation construction experience with strong local partnerships.
Having completed projects ranging from new aircraft hangars and FBO facilities to major hangar renovations, VJS brings an understanding of the unique systems, infrastructure, and operational considerations involved in aviation construction. That experience, paired with the knowledge of local contractors and project partners, including our joint venture partner, Haselden Construction, is helping the team navigate the requirements of this Colorado project.
Collaboration with Hauser Architects and BA Group during the permitting process helped expedite approvals and minimize potential delays, allowing the team to maintain momentum as construction progressed.
With construction underway, the VJS team continues to work alongside its project partners to bring the facility to life. From early planning through ongoing construction, the project reflects VJS' approach to aviation construction: understanding operational needs, addressing challenges early, and bringing the right expertise together to deliver a successful project.
