RFP 26032 Airport Land Lease

The Unified Government of Athens-Clarke County is requesting proposals to lease approximately 24,200 square feet of unimproved land at the Athens-Ben Epps Airport to construct a hangar facility, with proposals due September 21, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. ET. A mandatory pre-proposal conference and site visit will be held August 25, 2026 at 10:00 a.m. ET at the Ben Epps Flight Center Conference Room.

The lease term is 25 years commencing upon award with no renewal options. The current approved lease rate is $0.58 per square foot annually, though this rate is negotiable based on the proposer's capital investment commitment and anticipated benefits to the airport including increased fuel sales and aircraft operations. The lessee must construct required improvements within 18 months of approval.

The lessee assumes all maintenance, repairs, environmental compliance, demolition of existing structures, and compliance with federal storm water regulations. Insurance requirements are substantial: general liability of $5 million aggregate, all-risk physical damage at 100 percent replacement cost, workers' compensation, pollution liability of $3 million minimum, excess liability of $2 million, and aviation liability of $5 million if applicable. No subcontracting is permitted without prior written consent from the Unified Government.

Hangar operations have 24/7 access hours; construction is permitted Monday through Sunday from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Evaluation criteria are lease rate and term (40 points), understanding of airport goals (30 points), property investment plans (15 points), and ancillary services and fuel purchases (15 points). Written inquiries are due September 4, 2026 at 4:00 p.m. ET. Proposals remain valid for 120 days following submission.