TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE AIRPORT MASTER PLAN

FINAL REPORT

Prepared By:

5555 E. Michigan Street, Suite 200 Orlando, FL 32822

October 2017

TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Table of Contents

1. Inventory of Existing Conditions ...... 1-1 1.1. Introduction ...... 1-1 1.2. Seaplane Base Setting ...... 1-1 1.2.1. Location ...... 1-1 1.2.2. Administration ...... 1-2 1.3. Meteorological Conditions ...... 1-2 1.3.1. Climate ...... 1-2 1.3.2. Wind Coverage ...... 1-3 1.4. Historical Data ...... 1-4 1.4.1. Based Aircraft ...... 1-4 1.4.2. Aircraft Operations ...... 1-4 1.5. Airspace and Air Traffic Control ...... 1-5 1.5.1. Approach Procedures ...... 1-5 1.5.2. Airspace ...... 1-5 1.5.3. Vicinity Seaplane Bases ...... 1-6 1.6. Existing Facilities ...... 1-8 1.6.1. Sea Lane ...... 1-8 1.6.2. Seaplane Ramp ...... 1-8 1.6.3. Buildings ...... 1-10 1.6.4. Seaplane Parking Areas ...... 1-10 1.6.5. Aviation Fuel Storage ...... 1-10 1.6.6. Seaplane Base Security ...... 1-11 1.7. Seaplane Base Infrastructure ...... 1-11 1.7.1. Electric Power ...... 1-11 1.7.2. Potable Water ...... 1-11 1.7.3. Wastewater ...... 1-11 1.8. Area Demographics ...... 1-11 1.8.1. Population ...... 1-11 1.8.2. Employment ...... 1-12 1.8.3. Per Capita Personal Income ...... 1-12 1.9. Land-Use/Community Characteristics ...... 1-12

i Table of Contents TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

1.9.1. Florida Statutes Chapter 333, Airport Zoning ...... 1-12 1.9.2. Landfill Restrictions ...... 1-13 1.9.3. Residential and Educational Restrictions ...... 1-15 1.9.4. Seaplane Base Zoning ...... 1-17 1.9.5. Tavares Comprehensive Plan ...... 1-17 1.10. Inventory of Existing Conditions Summary ...... 1-17 2. Environmental Considerations ...... 2-1 2.1. Noise ...... 2-1 2.2. Compatible Land-use ...... 2-2 2.3. Air Quality ...... 2-2 2.4. Construction Impacts ...... 2-2 2.5. Threatened and Endangered Species ...... 2-3 2.6. Coastal Resources (Coastal Zones and Coastal barriers) ...... 2-3 2.7. Department of Transportation Act: Section 4(f) ...... 2-3 2.8. Farmlands ...... 2-3 2.9. Flood Plains ...... 2-4 2.10. Hazardous Materials, Pollution Prevention, and Solid Waste ...... 2-4 2.11. Historical Architectural, Archaeological, and Cultural Resources ...... 2-4 2.12. Light Emissions and Visual Effects ...... 2-5 2.13. Natural Resources and Energy Supply ...... 2-5 2.14. Secondary (Induced) Impacts ...... 2-5 2.15. Socioeconomic Impacts ...... 2-5 2.16. Water Quality ...... 2-5 2.17. Wetlands ...... 2-5 2.18. Wild and Scenic Rivers ...... 2-6 2.19. Wildlife Hazard Management Issues ...... 2-6 2.20. Environmental Considerations Summary ...... 2-6 3. Forecasts of Aviation Activity ...... 3-1 3.1. Overview ...... 3-1 3.2. Previously Developed Aviation Forecasts ...... 3-1 3.3. Historical Operations ...... 3-6 3.4. Forecast of Annual Operations ...... 3-7 3.5. Historical Based Aircraft ...... 3-8

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3.6. Peaking Activity ...... 3-10 3.7. Summary of Aviation Activity Forecasts ...... 3-11 4. Facilities Requirements ...... 4-1 4.1. Airspace ...... 4-1 4.2. Approaches...... 4-1 4.3. Part 77 Surfaces ...... 4-2 4.4. Sea Lanes ...... 4-3 4.5. Runway Design Code ...... 4-4 4.6. Airport Reference Code ...... 4-5 4.7. Taxi Channel ...... 4-6 4.8. Seaplane Ramp ...... 4-6 4.9. Piers ...... 4-7 4.10. Seaplane Apron ...... 4-8 4.10.1. Apron Tie-down Anchors ...... 4-9 4.10.2. Hoisting Equipment ...... 4-9 4.11. Aircraft Storage Hangars...... 4-10 4.12. Aviation Fuel Service ...... 4-10 4.13. The “Prop Shop” ...... 4-11 4.14. Relocation of the Tav-Lee Trail ...... 4-11 4.15. Tav-Lee Trailhead Building ...... 4-12 4.16. Security Fencing and Automated Gate ...... 4-12 4.17. Seaplane Base Identification ...... 4-13 4.17.1. Lighting Within the Water Operating Area ...... 4-13 4.17.2. Rotating Beacon ...... 4-13 4.17.3. Wind Cone ...... 4-13 4.17.4. Shoreline Lighting...... 4-13 4.17.5. Seaplane Base Air Marker ...... 4-14 4.18. Aircraft Maintenance ...... 4-14 4.19. Restroom Facilities ...... 4-14 4.20. Vehicular Parking and Rental Cars ...... 4-15 4.21. Road Access ...... 4-15 4.22. Facility Requirements Summary ...... 4-15 5. Development and Evaluation of Alternatives ...... 5-1

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5.1. Introduction ...... 5-1 5.2. Development of Alternatives ...... 5-1 5.2.1. Potential Instrument Approach ...... 5-1 5.2.2. Sea Lane Improvements ...... 5-1 5.2.3. Seaplane Ramp ...... 5-2 5.2.4. Piers ...... 5-2 5.2.5. Seaplane Apron ...... 5-3 5.2.6. Seaplane “Slips” ...... 5-3 5.2.7. Supplemental Wind Cone ...... 5-3 5.2.8. Tav-Lee Trail...... 5-3 5.2.9. Safety and Security Fencing and Gates ...... 5-4 5.2.10. Rotating Beacon ...... 5-8 5.2.11. Seaplane Apron Lighting ...... 5-8 5.2.12. Rental Car Parking ...... 5-8 5.3. Evaluation of Alternatives and Recommended Preferred Alternative ...... 5-12 5.4. Development and Evaluation of Alternatives Summary ...... 5-13 6. Seaplane Base Layout Plan Set ...... 6-1 6.1 Introduction ...... 6-1 6.2 SBLP Set ...... 6-2 6.2.1 Cover Sheet ...... 6-2 6.2.2 Data Sheet ...... 6-2 6.2.3 Seaplane Base Layout Plan ...... 6-2 6.2.4 FAR Part 77 Airport Airspace Drawing ...... 6-3 6.2.5 Inner Portion of the Approach Surfaces for Sea Lane 9 ...... 6-3 6.2.6 Inner Portion of the Approach Surfaces for Sea Lane 27 ...... 6-3 6.2.7 General Aviation Building Area Plan ...... 6-3 6.2.8 Seaplane Base Exhibit ‘A’ Property Inventory Map ...... 6-3 6.2.9 Seaplane Base Exhibit ’A’ Property Inventory Detail Map ...... 6-3 6.3 Seaplane Base Layout Plan Set Summary ...... 6-4 7. Capital Improvement Program ...... 7-1 7.1. Introduction ...... 7-1 7.2. Short-Term Projects (2017-2021) ...... 7-2 7.3. Mid-Term Projects (2022-2026) ...... 7-6

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7.4. Long-Term Projects (2027-2036) ...... 7-9 7.5. Potential Funding Sources ...... 7-13 7.5.1. Federal Funding ...... 7-13 7.5.2. State Funding ...... 7-14 7.5.3. Local Funding ...... 7-15 7.6. Potential Allocation of Funding ...... 7-15 7.7. Capital Improvement Program Summary ...... 7-18

List of Figures Figure 1-1 Lake County Vicinity Map ...... 1-1 Figure 1-2 Tavares Seaplane Base Location Map ...... 1-2 Figure 1-3 Airspace Classifications ...... 1-5 Figure 1-4 Aeronautical Chart ...... 1-6 Figure 1-5 Tavares Seaplane Ramp ...... 1-8 Figure 1-6 Existing Seaplane Base Facilities and Environs ...... 1-9 Figure 1-7 Tavares Seaplane Base Prop Shop ...... 1-10 Figure 1-8 Ten-Year Lake County Unemployment Percentages ...... 1-12 Figure 1-9 Landfill Restricted Areas ...... 1-14 Figure 1-10 Residential and Educational Restricted Areas ...... 1-16 Figure 3-1 FDOT Site Application Forecast for Annual Operations ...... 3-5 Figure 3-2 Tavares Seaplane Base Historical Operations ...... 3-6 Figure 3-3 Forecast of Annual Operations ...... 3-8 Figure 3-4 Based Seaplane Forecast ...... 3-10 Figure 4-1 Existing Visual Runway Part 77 Surfaces...... 4-3 Figure 4-2 Existing Tavares Seaplane Ramp ...... 4-6 Figure 4-3 Tavares Seaplane Base and Marina Piers ...... 4-7 Figure 4-4 Tavares Seaplane Base Apron ...... 4-9 Figure 4-5 Fueling Stations ...... 4-11 Figure 4-6 Location of the Tav-Lee Trail...... 4-12 Figure 4-7 Parking and Restrooms ...... 4-14 Figure 5-1 Tav-Lee Trail Relocation and Reconstructed Seaplane Ramp ...... 5-5 Figure 5-2 Proposed Fencing Alternative One ...... 5-6 Figure 5-3 Proposed Fencing Alternative Two...... 5-7

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Figure 5-4 Rotating Beacon Location Alternatives ...... 5-9 Figure 5-5 Potential Seaplane Apron Lighting ...... 5-10 Figure 5-6 Rental Car Parking Space Alternatives ...... 5-11 Figure 5-7 Recommended Preferred Alternative ...... 5-14 Figure 6-1 Cover Sheet ...... 6-5 Figure 6-2 Seaplane Base Data Sheet ...... 6-6 Figure 6-3 Seaplane Base Layout Plan ...... 6-7 Figure 6-4 FAR Part 77 Airport Surfaces Airport Vicinity Plan ...... 6-8 Figure 6-5 Sea Lane 9 Inner Approach Plan ...... 6-9 Figure 6-6 Sea Lane 27 Inner Approach Plan ...... 6-10 Figure 6-7 General Aviation Terminal Building Plan ...... 6-11 Figure 6-8 Exhibit "A" Seaplane Base Property Inventory Map ...... 6-12 Figure 6-9 Exhibit "A" Seaplane Base Detail Map ...... 6-13 Figure 7-1 Short-Term CIP Projects ...... 7-5 Figure 7-2 Mid-Term CIP Projects ...... 7-8 Figure 7-3 Long-Term CIP Projects ...... 7-12

List of Tables

Table 1-1 Wind Coverage for Sea Lane 9/27 ...... 1-4 Table 1-2 Florida Seaplane Bases Within 50 Nautical Miles of Tavares ...... 1-7 Table 3-1 Florida Public Use Seaplane Facilities ...... 3-2 Table 3-2 Historical Seaplane Base Operational Activity ...... 3-3 Table 3-3 FDOT Site Application Forecast for Annual Operations ...... 3-5 Table 3-4 Tavares Seaplane Base Historical Operations ...... 3-6 Table 3-5 Forecast of Annual Operations ...... 3-7 Table 3-6 Based Seaplane Forecast ...... 3-9 Table 3-7 Projected Peak Month Operations ...... 3-11 Table 3-8 Summary of Aviation Activity Forecasts ...... 3-11 Table 4-1 Existing Part 77 Surfaces ...... 4-2 Table 4-2 Aircraft Approach Categories ...... 4-4 Table 4-3 Airplane Design Groups ...... 4-4 Table 4-4 Visibility Minimums ...... 4-5 Table 7-1 Short-Term Capital Improvement Program Projects ...... 7-4

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Table 7-2 Mid-Term Capital Improvement Program Projects ...... 7-7 Table 7-3 Long-Term Capital Improvement Program Projects ...... 7-11 Table 7-4 Potential Allocation of Short-Term (2017-2021) and Mid-Term (2022-2026) and Long- Term (2027-2036) CIP Project Funding ...... 7-17

Appendices

Appendix A: Wind Data Appendix B: List of Seaplane Bases in Florida Appendix C: Threatened and Endangered Species Appendix D: Environmental Assessment and ASTM Database Review Appendix E: Environmental Data Resources Database Appendix F: Environmental Data Resources City Directory Image Appendix G: Certified Sanborn Fire Insurance Map Report Appendix H: Historical Resource Aerials and Historical Topographical Maps Appendix I: Wetland Analysis Appendix J: Safety and Security Surveillance Assessment for Tavares Seaplane Base Appendix K: Public Meeting Boards and Comment Cards Appendix L: FDOT Letter of Acceptance into the Florida Aviation System Plan

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TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

1. INVENTORY OF EXISTING CONDITIONS

1.1. Introduction The Tavares Seaplane Base (FA1) is a public use seaplane landing area owned by the City of Tavares, Florida. The facility was licensed as a public airport by the State of Florida in 2010. City officials launched the idea for a seaplane base, as part of a plan to reinvigorate business and tourist activity in the downtown area. The Seaplane Base has been a major success and the City of Tavares is now known as “America’s Seaplane City”. This section presents a brief history of the Seaplane Base, existing infrastructure, prevailing meteorological conditions, and local/regional airspace considerations. 1.2. Seaplane Base Setting 1.2.1. Location The Tavares Seaplane Base is located in Lake County, Florida on the north shore of Lake Dora in downtown Tavares, Florida, as shown in Figure 1-1 and Figure 1-2. The physical facilities of the Seaplane Base are located at 150 E. Ruby Street, within the boundaries of Wooton Park.

Figure 1-1 LAKE COUNTY VICINITY MAP

SOURCE: Google Maps

1-1 Inventory of Existing Conditions TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Figure 1-2 TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE LOCATION MAP

SOURCE: Google Maps

1.2.2. Administration The Seaplane Base is owned and operated by the City of Tavares. The Airport Manager reports to the Economic Development Director for the City and is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the facility. 1.3. Meteorological Conditions 1.3.1. Climate The Tavares Seaplane Base is located near the center of the Florida peninsula and experiences a subtropical climate similar to other inland parts of the State. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) routinely collects climate data from a reporting station

1-2 Inventory of Existing Conditions TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida located at the Leesburg International Airport. This reporting station is less than five miles from the Tavares Seaplane Base, thus providing an accurate reflection of typical atmospheric conditions in the area. Data collected by NOAA between 1981 and 2010 reflects an average mean high temperature of 81.9 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 62.4 degrees Fahrenheit. Average annual precipitation during the same period was approximately 51.19 inches. The hottest months of the year are typically July and August, when average temperatures of 91.5 degrees were observed. The wettest month is typically June, which had an average annual rainfall rate of more than 8.00 inches during the study period.

1.3.2. Wind Coverage Runway wind coverage at an airport refers to the percentage of time that crosswinds are below an acceptable velocity. Per the FAA Advisory Circular 150/5300-13A, Airport Design, the minimum wind coverage permitted for a runway considering all observations is 95 percent. This means that for 95 percent of the time, the crosswind component must be less than the maximum crosswind component of the aircraft landing at that specific airport. The crosswind component is calculated based on the crosswind not exceeding the following:

• 10.5 knots (12 miles per hour (MPH)) for aircraft with an Airport Reference Code (ARC) of A-1 and B-1 (examples aircraft include the Beech Bonanza, the Cessna Citation I, and the Beech King Air)

• 13 knots (15 mph) for ARC A-II and B-II (example aircraft include the Beech King Air 200, the DHC 6 Twin Otter, and the Cessna 441)

• 16 knots (18 mph) for ARC A-III, B-III, and C-I through D-III (example aircraft include the Dash 8, the DHC 5D Buffalo, and the Gates Learjet 24/25/28/29/54/55/56)

• 20 knots (23 mph) for ARC A-IV through D-IV (example aircraft include the Boeing YC 14, the Boeing 757, and the MD-11)

If this coverage cannot be accomplished for the maximum crosswind component of the critical aircraft for a specific runway, then the provision of a crosswind runway should be considered.

FAA Advisory Circular 150/5300-13A, Airport Design, recommends that a period of at least 10 consecutive years of wind data should be examined when analyzing runway wind coverage. The Tavares Seaplane Base does not have automated weather reporting equipment. However, the Leesburg International Airport, located less than five miles from the Seaplane Base, has been reporting their data for over ten years. This data was accessed and compared with the Runway 9/27 configuration of the Tavares Sea Lane yielding the results contained in Table 1-1.

1-3 Inventory of Existing Conditions TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Table 1-1 WIND COVERAGE FOR SEA LANE 9/27

Tavares Seaplane Base

All Weather 10.5 knots (12 mph) 96.13% 13 knots (15 mph) 98.04% Visual Flight Rules (VFR) 10.5 knots (12 mph) 96.31% 13 knots (15 mph) 98.17% Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) 10.5 knots (12 mph) 94.44% 13 knots (15 mph) 96.92% SOURCE: FAA AGIS Years 2006 through 2015

Information is given for three different conditions. The first, All Weather, covers all weather conditions. The second, Visual Flight Rules (VFR), covers those rules in effect when visual flight meteorological conditions occur, which is when the cloud ceiling is greater than 1,000 feet and visibility is greater than three miles. The third condition is Instrument Flight Rules, or IFR. IFR occurs when the meteorological conditions are less than VFR. Only the crosswind components for 10.5 and 13 knots wind conditions were calculated, as aircraft in the higher wind groups are not expected to operate in significant numbers at the Tavares Seaplane Base.

It can be seen from Table 1-1 that the wind coverage for Sea Lane 9/27 exceeds 95 percent in all conditions except for IFR rules with wind speeds at 10.5 knots. This means that statistically, the wind and weather at Tavares Seaplane Base would not be conducive to landing aircraft of ARC A-I and B-II during IFR conditions and winds of 10.5 knots or above. Consideration should be given to adding a crosswind sea lane with an orientation that is able to address this issue, should IFR operations ever be considered at the Seaplane Base. Specific wind data information for Sea Lane 9/27 can be found in Appendix A. 1.4. Historical Data 1.4.1. Based Aircraft There are currently four aircraft based at the Tavares Seaplane Base. The total is made up of three single-engine and one multiple engine aircraft that are owned and operated by Jones Brothers & Co., which operate Part 135 on-demand and scheduled charter flights, as well as flight training services.

1.4.2. Aircraft Operations City of Tavares operational records for the Seaplane Base are available dating back to the beginning of 2012. City-staff recorded the number of seaplanes using the facility during normal

1-4 Inventory of Existing Conditions TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida business hours. While these figures provide a baseline indication of aircraft operational activity, it is understood that additional operations may have taken place without being recorded. In 2012, Seaplane Base staff recorded approximately 6,714 operations. This is an average of 18.3 operations per day. Recorded operations in 2013 were 10,190 for an average of approximately 27.9 per day. In 2014, staff recorded 4,946 operations for an average of just over 13 per day. 1.5. Airspace and Air Traffic Control 1.5.1. Approach Procedures The Tavares Seaplane Base does not have any published instrument approach procedures. The facility currently only supports operations conducted under Visual Flight Rules (VFR). The City has indicated that they may be interested in developing a GPS approach for the seaplane base at some point in the future.

1.5.2. Airspace The Tavares Seaplane Base is located within Class E controlled airspace as described in Figure 1-3. As shown in Figure 1-4, the facility is located just east of the Leesburg (KLEE) Class D airspace and just west of the Orlando 30 NM Mode C Transponder veil. The Orlando Class B airspace begins approximately three NM east of the Seaplane Base at a floor altitude of 6,000 feet above Mean Sea Level (MSL) and extends upwards to an altitude of 10,000 MSL.

Figure 1-3 AIRSPACE CLASSIFICATIONS

SOURCE: Pilot Workshop.com

1-5 Inventory of Existing Conditions TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Figure 1-4 AERONAUTICAL CHART

SOURCE: FDOT 2015 Florida Aeronautical Chart 1.5.3. Vicinity Seaplane Bases There are several of seaplane bases near the Tavares Seaplane Base. Table 1-2 contains those seaplane bases that are within 50 nautical miles of the Seaplane Base. The list of all seaplane bases located within the State of Florida can be found in Appendix B.

1-6 Inventory of Existing Conditions TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Table 1-2 FLORIDA SEAPLANE BASES WITHIN 50 NAUTICAL MILES OF TAVARES

Nautical Miles From Direction Seaplane Public or Tavares From Base ID Florida City Seaplane Base Private SPB Tavares FA1 Tavares Tavares Seaplane Base & Marina Public 0 0 Tavares Lake Eustis SPB Private 1.7 NW 3FA8 Tavares Searey Central Seaplane Base Private 2.3 SW 22FL Mount Dora Lakeside Seaplane Base Private 3.8 E FD78 Groveland Kennedy SPB Private 13.5 SSW 0FA5 Oakland Briley Farm Seaplane Base Private 14.6 SSE Clermont John's Lake SPB Private 17.8 S 24FA Oklawaha Lake Weir SPB Private 18.3 NW FD79 Belleview Jordan SPB Private 18.4 NW 0FA9 Altamonte Springs Paradise Landing SPB Private 20.1 SE 89FL Orlando Lake Hiawassee SPB Private 20.8 SE 12FL Orlando Timberlachen SPB Private 21.1 SE Prairie Lake Private Seaplane 3FD9 Altamonte Springs Mooring Private 21.5 ESE FL55 Sanford Sanford SPB Private 24.5 E 98FL Orlando/Buena Vista Sand Lake SPB Private 25.3 SSE FD98 Winter Springs Ferguson SPB Private 24.6 E Orlando Splash n Dash Seaplane Lodge Private 26.5 SE 98FD Oviedo Lake Jessup SPB Private 26.5 E 91FL Orlando Lake Conway North SPB Private 27 SE 0FL5 Orlando/Belle Isle Lake Conway South SPB Private 28.6 SE 0FL2 Geneva Alligator Drink SPB Private 29.6 E FA17 Kissimmee Kissimmee SPB Private 35.3 SSE 43FD Kissimmee Coles SPB Private 35.4 SSE FD12 Kissimmee Toho SPB Private 37.5 SSE FA78 St. Cloud Robinsette Private 37.7 SE FD44 Crescent City Eagles Nest Private 38.1 N FA73 Haines City Oak Harbor SPB Private 40.4 S Kissimmee East Lake SPB Private 41.4 SSE 1FL0 Auburndale Garner's Landing SPB Private 42 S 8FA0 Lakeland Lake Gibson SPB Private 43.3 SSW F57 Winter Haven Jack Brown's SPB Public 44.6 S FL42 Winter Haven King Seaaero SPB Private 45.7 S 3FD6 Scottsmoor Tradewinds Airways Private 46 E 57FA St. Cloud Lake X Private 47.9 SE FIN Palm Coast Flagler Executive Public 48.3 NE

1-7 Inventory of Existing Conditions TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

1.6. Existing Facilities 1.6.1. Sea Lane The aircraft operating area is defined by an unmarked sea lane, Runway 9/27, on Lake Dora and a direct taxi route of approximately 1,900 feet to the seaplane ramp area on the north shore of Lake Dora. The FAA approved sea lane is 3,000 feet long by 200 feet wide oriented in an east- west direction. The east-west orientation was selected based on prevailing wind conditions and consistency with existing traffic patterns at neighboring aviation facilities. The length of the sea lane was determined to be adequate for the fleet mix of mainly light general aviation aircraft anticipated to use the facility.

1.6.2. Seaplane Ramp Tavares Seaplane Base has a seaplane ramp on the north shore of Lake Dora to support amphibious operations. The seaplane ramp is constructed of concrete and is approximately 35 feet wide; a sufficient width to accommodate most light general aviation amphibious aircraft. It is located adjacent to the Seaplane Base Terminal near the aircraft parking and fueling facilities. To delineate it from the adjacent boat ramp, the seaplane ramp has a taxiway centerline and the words “Seaplane Ramp” have been painted on the pavement. The seaplane ramp is shown in Figure 1-5. The existing Seaplane Base facilities, except for the Sea Lane, are shown in Figure 1-6.

Figure 1-5 TAVARES SEAPLANE RAMP

SOURCE: City of Tavares, Florida

1-8 Inventory of Existing Conditions TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Figure 1-6 EXISTING SEAPLANE BASE FACILITIES AND ENVIRONS

1-9 Inventory of Existing Conditions

TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

1.6.3. Buildings The City of Tavares owns and operates the Seaplane Base terminal, called the “Prop Shop,” located at 150 E. Ruby Street and shown in Figure 1-7. This facility contains the City-operated Fixed Base Operator (FBO) and the sole Airport tenant, Jones Brothers & Co. The one-story building was completed in 2010 and has approximately 908 square feet of usable space. The FBO occupies approximately 730 square feet and contains a small flight planning/rest area, pilot’s sundries, and the cash wrap/office area. The Jones Brothers operation occupies the remaining space in a separate area west of the “Prop Shop.”

Figure 1-7 TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE PROP SHOP

SOURCE: City of Tavares, FL

1.6.4. Seaplane Parking Areas Landside parking facilities are available adjacent to the seaplane ramp and the “Prop Shop.” The seaplane parking area is located on the asphalt apron just north of the seaplane ramp. The designated seaplane parking area is approximately 250 square feet and is delineated by containment lines and the words “Seaplane Parking Only” painted on the pavement. Water and apron parking facilities are available for approximately fifteen aircraft under typical conditions. During special events, boat parking is restricted and the entire 16,500 square feet of asphalt apron can be used for seaplane parking. Additional public seaplane parking positions are also available on the water in the marina area just west of the seaplane ramp. There are also two piers located just east of the seaplane ramp.

1.6.5. Aviation Fuel Storage Tavares Seaplane Base has two fueling stations; each with two pumps. Each station dispenses 100LL and 90 octane ethanol-free unleaded fuels. The fuels are stored in an underground divided

1-10 Inventory of Existing Conditions TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

tank. The 90-octane ethanol-free fuel chamber has a capacity of 3,271 gallons and the 100 LL chamber’s capacity is 2,271 gallons. One station is located just west of the seaplane ramp on the seaplane apron. The second is located on the pier west of the seaplane base. The second location is the only facility that provides fueling to seaplanes while they are in the water. There are emergency fuel shut off switches and fire extinguishers located adjacent to each station. Fuel is only available when the FBO is open – from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days per week.

1.6.6. Seaplane Base Security The Tavares Police Department and other City personnel assigned to the facility provide security at the Seaplane Base. The police department conducts regular patrols of the area from their headquarters located one block north of the Seaplane Base. There is no security fencing in place to segregate aircraft and aviation facilities from public areas. However, several other security procedures have been enacted by the City to protect the safety and welfare of aviation operators and the public. In accordance with State Statute, information on these procedures is not available for public dissemination. 1.7. Seaplane Base Infrastructure 1.7.1. Electric Power The Tavares Seaplane Base receives electrical service at the “Prop Shop” and surrounding marina area from Duke Energy. Duke Energy is the primary provider of electrical service in the City of Tavares and Lake County. Electrical consumption at the “Prop Shop” and related facilities is handled through a commercial account, which is metered and billed monthly.

1.7.2. Potable Water The City of Tavares provides potable water service to the Seaplane Base facilities thorough the Utilities Department. The Utilities Water Division operates four water treatment plants and three water storage facilities in the City of Tavares with a total storage capacity of more than 2.5 million gallons.

1.7.3. Wastewater The City of Tavares Utilities Department also provides wastewater treatment services for the Seaplane Base and related facilities. The Wastewater Division operates one water reclamation facility and the old “Caroline Facility.” The City of Tavares Utilities Department currently treats more than 1.5 million gallons of wastewater per day. 1.8. Area Demographics 1.8.1. Population The Tavares Seaplane Base is located within the City of Tavares in Lake County, Florida. The 2010 U.S. Census reported that the population of Tavares was 13,951. The estimated population in 2013 was 14,411. The reported population of Lake County, Florida in 2010 was 297,052. The estimated population in 2013 was 308,115. These figures indicate that the population of Tavares is increasing at a rate of less than 1 percent per year. The population in Lake County is increasing

1-11 Inventory of Existing Conditions TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

at a slightly higher rate, around 1.5 percent per year. The growth rates in both the City and the County are consistent with statewide averages for the same time periods.

1.8.2. Employment Since the Tavares Seaplane Base opened in 2010, several new businesses have opened in the downtown area. The Pavilion on the Lake was constructed to accommodate special events and several improvements have been made to the general appearance of the downtown area. Employment in the region is also growing. The Florida Department of Economic Opportunity states that there were 121,266 jobs in Lake County in 2013 and 126,366 in 2014. This is an increase of 4.21 percent. Conversely, United States Federal Reserve data indicates that the September 2015 unemployment rate for Lake County was at 5.1 percent, as compared to 13.5 percent in January of 2010, as shown in Figure 1-8.

Figure 1-8 TEN-YEAR LAKE COUNTY UNEMPLOYMENT PERCENTAGES

SOURCE: United States Federal Reserve

1.8.3. Per Capita Personal Income Per Capita Personal Income (PCPI) in Tavares was estimated at $22,735 per year in 2013. Estimated PCPI in Lake County in 2013 was slightly higher at $24,183. The average PCPI for the State of Florida in 2013 was estimated to be $26,236. 1.9. Land-Use/Community Characteristics 1.9.1. Florida Statutes Chapter 333, Airport Zoning The Tavares Seaplane Base is a licensed, public-use airport subject to the rules, regulations and protections outlined in Florida Statutes Chapter 333. Chapter 333 is also known as the Airport Zoning Law, providing baseline protection for airports from incompatible land uses that may impact airport operations.

1-12 Inventory of Existing Conditions TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

1.9.2. Landfill Restrictions Chapter 333 requires communities to consider airport zoning regulations that regulate the location of sanitary landfills with respect to airports. Landfills tend to attract birds, and bird strikes pose a serious risk to aircraft and individuals on aircraft. Sanitary landfills should be:

• 10,000 feet from the nearest point on the runways used by turboprop or jet aircraft • 5,000 feet from the nearest point on runways used by piston aircraft • Ideally located outside the lateral limits of the airport’s Part 77 surfaces.

Figure 1-9 shows the areas around the Tavares Sea Lane that would be restricted from having a landfill. The Lake County Landfill is located southwest of the Seaplane Base, but it is not within either the 5,000-foot restriction for piston aircraft or the 10,000-foot restriction for turboprop or jet aircraft.

1-13 Inventory of Existing Conditions TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Figure 1-9 LANDFILL RESTRICTED AREAS

SOURCE: Google Maps

1-14 Inventory of Existing Conditions TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

1.9.3. Residential and Educational Restrictions Residential and educational development is also restricted within the vicinity of an airport. These are prohibited within an oval area centered on each runway end. The width of the oval is equal to the length of the longest runway at an airport and is centered on the centerline of the runway. The oval extends out from each runway end one half the length of the longest runway. Figure 1-100 shows the extent of the residential and educational restrictions with respect to the Tavares Sea Lane. Because the Sea Lane is located on Lake Dora sufficiently far from shore, no residences or educational facilities are impacted by this restriction.

1-15 Inventory of Existing Conditions TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Figure 1-10 RESIDENTIAL AND EDUCATIONAL RESTRICTED AREAS

1-16 Inventory of Existing Conditions TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

1.9.4. Seaplane Base Zoning While Chapter 333 F.S. provides a baseline level of protection from incompatible land uses and other obstructions that may encroach on an airport, local jurisdictions are encouraged to adopt ordinances to provide a higher and more specific level of protection. In 2012, the City of Tavares adopted Ordinance 2012-27 amending the Tavares Land Development Regulations to include a chapter on airport protection zoning. Chapter 8 Section 8-12(G) of the Land Development Regulations defines the location and dimensions of the Sea Lane, noting that the City intends to protect this area from incompatible land uses and structural encroachment.

1.9.5. Tavares Comprehensive Plan The Tavares Comprehensive Plan is the guiding document for development activities within the City of Tavares. In 2012, the City of Tavares adopted Ordinance 2012-22, which officially identified the Tavares Seaplane Base as a City resource and identified the protections afforded to the facility in the Tavares Land Development Regulations discussed above and in Florida Statutes Chapter 333. 1.10. Inventory of Existing Conditions Summary This inventory discussion has focused on the existing conditions and facilities located at and in the environs of the Tavares Seaplane Base. The information in this chapter will serve as the basis of comparison for the Facility Requirements Analysis.

1-17 Inventory of Existing Conditions TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

2. ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS As part of this Master Plan, consideration is given during the Evaluation of Alternatives chapter to determine if there are currently any environmental concerns on or in the vicinity of the Seaplane Base that either might be affected by or impact any of the alternatives developed. This section is not intended to be an environmental assessment. Where such is required, a Categorical Exclusion, an Environmental Assessment, or an Environmental Impact Statement would be developed immediately prior to the commencement of design of an individual or related projects, when much more project specific information would be available.

The FAA Order 5050.4B, National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) Implementing Instructions for Airport Projects, Section 706e, Affected Environment, states that “this section succinctly describes only those environmental resources the proposed action and its reasonable alternatives, if any, are likely to affect.”

The following environmental resources and conditions within the Affected Environment that have a potential to be impacted by the Seaplane Base development proposed within this Master Plan are discussed in the following sections:

• Noise • Compatible Land Use • Air Quality • Construction Impacts • Threatened and Endangered Species (Federal and State of Florida) • Coastal Resources (Coastal Zones and Coastal Barriers) • Department of Transportation: Section 4(f) • Farmlands • Flood Plains • Hazardous Materials, Pollution Prevention, and Solid Waste • Historic, Architectural, Archaeological, and Cultural Resources • Light Emissions and Visual Effects • Natural Resources and energy Supply • Secondary (Induced) Impacts • Socioeconomic Impacts • Water Quality • Wetlands • Wild and Scenic Rivers 2.1. Noise In 2015, the impacts from aircraft are considered to be de minimus, which can be considered for the most part a risk too small to be concerned about. The current aircraft mix for the Tavares Seaplane Base does not show a conflict between aircraft noise and current or future residential development.

2-1 Environmental Considerations TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

This Master Plan recommends appropriate buffering of Airport related development and non- compatible land uses. The Tavares Seaplane Base should support and encourage development of aviation related development on Seaplane Base property. Master planning of all development and coordination with City, County, and State of Florida agencies is a priority in order to promote economic growth and aviation related development. Based on the above information, there will be no impacts to noise abatement requirements identified in this Master Plan. 2.2. Compatible Land-use The Tavares Seaplane Base and surrounding area has a mixed land use. Future development plans should include the 2016 Master Plan, Seaplane Base Layout Plan and a Comprehensive Plan assessment designating the area of aviation related development including commercial and hub development. A large portion of the area is open land without current development, which is consistent with aviation and transportation related development. It is highly recommended that operations and use be evaluated in order to determine future aviation use and development opportunities.

The subject land use is a mixture of aviation, boat docking, and some commercial designated land use, which should be evaluated for highest and best use of property on and near the Tavares Seaplane Base. Much of the area is inconsistent with aviation related development.

2.3. Air Quality Air quality has not been historically monitored at the Tavares Seaplane Base using FAA Order 1050.1 E, which provides guidelines for determining whether air quality analysis is required for proposed development. These federal guidelines also require that any state regulations, such as Indirect Sources Requirements (ISR), be addressed when determining the need to assess air quality. The State of Florida does not have any requirements for an indirect source review. The projected activities for the Tavares Seaplane Base Master Plan show that the annual operation will not require an Air Quality Analysis to be conducted.

2.4. Construction Impacts Current aviation and land surface transportation construction impacts are not considered significant based on current or planned future development. All current and future development impacts at the Seaplane Base are and will be in compliance with State of Florida, Lake County and City of Tavares development guidelines, regulations, and permitting.

There are environmentally sensitive areas on the Seaplane Base including federal and State of Florida Wetlands and protected federal and State of Florida Threatened and Endangered Species. Based on the information in this chapter, there will be no significant impacts caused by construction resulting from this Master Plan. All construction impacts will consider these factors and any necessary permits will be acquired.

2-2 Environmental Considerations TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

2.5. Threatened and Endangered Species A wildlife inventory was conducted for the Tavares Seaplane Base for the primary purpose of documenting U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service and State of Florida Wildlife Conservation Commission resources onsite and in the immediate area. A Threatened & Endangered Species Inventory is included in this report as Appendix C. The Florida Natural Areas Inventory is also included in the Threatened and Endangered Species report for independent evaluation. Federally protected species of flora and fauna were not observed onsite based on investigation. State of Florida protected species were identified but development is not anticipated to have a direct adverse impact on species. Other wildlife commensals could exist onsite, but none were observed. It is likely that protected species of birds exist on the Seaplane Base. These species were inventoried in the Florida Natural Areas Inventory.

Per the Soil Conservation Service map for the Tavares Seaplane Base there are hydric soils located within and near the water’s edge Master Plan development area including:

• Candler Sands (0-5% slopes), • Arents Sands, • Pomello Sands (0-5% slopes), • Swamp, and Water.

Florida Wildlife Conservation Gopher Tortoise permit(s) do not need to be issued because no Gopher Tortoises were observed onsite for the proposed development. The surveys were done by Dr. Storm L. Richards and Dr. Jeanne Fillman-Richards, both Registered Gopher Tortoise Agents with the Florida Wildlife Conservation Commission (Agents #GTA-09-00148C and GTA- 09-00149C).

2.6. Coastal Resources (Coastal Zones and Coastal barriers) Florida’s Coastal Zone Management Program is administered by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP). Authorization under Section 380.23 of Florida Statutes states that only those federal activities that significantly affect Florida’s Coastal Zone will be evaluated for consistency with the Florida Coastal Management Programs. The Tavares Seaplane Base Master Plan proposes no direct impacts to Florida Coastal Zone areas.

2.7. Department of Transportation Act: Section 4(f) The Tavares Seaplane Base Master Plan proposes no significant impacts to City of Tavares, Lake County, or State of Florida recreation facilities or City, County, or State of Florida parks at this time.

2.8. Farmlands There are no prime or unique farmlands on the Tavares Seaplane Base or in the immediate vicinity. No areas adjacent and near the Seaplane Base were historically pine plantations or considered prime or unique farmland.

2-3 Environmental Considerations TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

2.9. Flood Plains Review of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) Flood Plain Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM) show that the Tavares Seaplane Base Master Plan will not encroach upon any 100- year or 500-year flood plains as shown in Appendix D.

FEMA FLOOD ZONE

Target Property County FEMA Flood Electronic Data LAKE, FL YES – Refer to the Overview Map and Detail Map Flood Plain Panel at Target Property: 12069C – FEMA DFIRM Flood data Additional Panels in search area: Not Reported National Wetland Inventory (NWI) Data Covered Eustis Yes – Refer to Overview Map & Detail Map

2.10. Hazardous Materials, Pollution Prevention, and Solid Waste There does not appear to be documentation of existing recognizable environmental conditions at the Tavares Seaplane Base or on adjacent and nearby areas as shown in Appendix E. An Underground Storage Tank (UST) does exist onsite and is a gasoline and Avgas divided tank that appears to be recorded, but does not show the exact location. Appendix E includes the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) Assessment and ASTM E1527-05 and E1527-13 Database Review. Appendix F contains information that may assist in determining past uses of the property and adjacent properties that could determine future liability.

The existing divided UST gasoline and Avgas tank is located adjacent to Lake Dora and a more comprehensive approach to total fuel containment, if a fuel release should occur, should be considered. A possible containment wall and concrete flooring would change the environmental impacts for fuel pumping leaks or spills. Tank and valve integrity by routine testing is recommended or fuel quantity testing by measuring daily volumes could provide data on inadvertent releases of product.

2.11. Historical Architectural, Archaeological, and Cultural Resources Two registered professional archaeologists evaluated the Tavares Seaplane Base Master Plan development area. A pedestrian survey with no test pit excavation was conducted in May and June 2015 in association with an FAA 5050.4 Environmental Assessment. Dr. Storm L. Richards, R.P.A. and Dr. Jeanne Fillman-Richards, R.P.A. completed the cultural resource survey in June 2015. The survey is based on visual inspection and historic aerial review.

The Florida State Historic Preservation Officer (SHPO) and the Division of Historical Resources has not recorded significant historic and/or archaeological sites on the Tavares Seaplane Base Master Plan area. There was a warehouse located on or near the site that shows up in the Sanborn Maps as shown in Appendix G. This warehouse no longer exists and its exact location is imprecise. However, some future considerations may be required.

2-4 Environmental Considerations TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

2.12. Light Emissions and Visual Effects An evaluation for light emissions and visual effects has identified no current or proposed impacts or significant issues. Further, it is the intention of the City of Tavares that they will not install lights along the Sea Lane. 2.13. Natural Resources and Energy Supply It is not anticipated that any Seaplane Base development alternatives will have significant adverse impact on natural resources and energy supply. There are currently no significant impacts on people or businesses because of uses of natural resources or the energy supply. 2.14. Secondary (Induced) Impacts No significant secondary impacts are anticipated with the existing and/or proposed Seaplane Base development that may be recommended in this Master Plan. 2.15. Socioeconomic Impacts The property surrounding the Tavares Seaplane Base has undergone recent significant development, as is shown in the historic aerials of the site contained in Appendix H. There are residential communities and commercial development near the Tavares Seaplane Base that are well established. This established residential development may impact growth in this area. This area could also be resolved by comprehensive planning and growth management. Single family residential may not be consistent with aviation related development. This area could be incorporated into a new trade port and enhanced aviation development. 2.16. Water Quality Stormwater design is determined, to a large extent, by the soil at the site and the depth of the groundwater level below the surface. Soils at the site have been evaluated and details are included in the Wetlands Analysis found in Appendix I.

All proposed Seaplane Base development will incorporate stormwater drainage management. Water quality improvements will be designed in accordance with the applicable water quality guidelines set forth by local, State of Florida and federal agencies. Appropriate permits will be obtained prior to commencing construction. Temporary construction impacts will be avoided and minimized using environmental Best Management Practices. 2.17. Wetlands The Tavares Seaplane Base has identified isolated wetlands associated with a mixed hardwood forest and lake littoral zone as shown in Appendix I. It appears the City of Tavares has been approved to have nuisance species removal executed. These nuisance species include but are not limited: • Carolina willow • Primrose willow • Brazilian pepper

2-5 Environmental Considerations TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

• Torpedo grass • Hydrilla

These species of vegetation are not beneficial to aviation, boating, or recreational uses. There are wetland vegetative species more appropriate for these areas. This is likely a permittable activity but should be coordinated with St. Johns River Water Management District and possibly the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP).

The wetlands onsite are not connected to major wetlands, but would likely require mitigation and should be considered significant for Master Plan Development. A St. Johns River Water Management District and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers review may be required prior to development impacting wetlands. Any impacts to these areas would require St. Johns River Water Management District (SJRWMD) and probably U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) permitting.

Future wetlands impact and preservation of isolated wetlands should be planned for future development. The southern wetland identified as swamp in the National Wildlife Inventory and Soils maps are USACE and SJRWMD wetlands. Impacts could occur but the mitigation rates will be high unless permits already exist for wetland impacts.

2.18. Wild and Scenic Rivers The U.S. Department of the Interior maintains a national inventory of river segments that qualify for inclusion in the National Wild and Scenic River Systems. There are no national wild and scenic rivers at the Tavares Seaplane Base.

2.19. Wildlife Hazard Management Issues Rules governing the certification and operation of commercial service airports are identified in 14 CFR Part 139. Section 139.337 discusses the need to manage wildlife hazards on or near airports, when aircraft collide with wildlife. This is most often birds. As the Tavares Seaplane Base is not a commercial service airport and as it does not have a record of either bird or other wildlife strikes; it is currently not required to have a Wildlife Hazard Management Plan. A Wildlife Hazard Management Plan would address the responsibilities, policies, and procedures necessary to reduce wildlife hazards at the Seaplane Base. 2.20. Environmental Considerations Summary Specific environmental resources and conditions within the Affected Environment of the Tavares Seaplane Base that have a potential to be impacted by development of the Seaplane Base are discussed in this chapter. Based on the information gathered, no impacts to specific environmental requirements were identified. The information gathered will be used in evaluating alternatives to ensure that future development together with Best Management Practices avoid, as much as possible, any future impact to the environment.

2-6 Environmental Considerations TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

All past permits should be maintained in a permanent file for the Seaplane Base site. It is highly likely that additional permits will be necessary when additional work takes place. Permit modification from earlier permits could reduce the overall permitting costs. Additional environmental permits for future work could include the following:

• National Pollution Discharge (NPDES) • FDEP UST Tank permit(s) • Master Drainage permit for additional development and future growth

For future planning purposes, the Tavares Seaplane Base should be incorporated into the Tavares Comprehensive Plan updates. This would be particularly relevant in the Land-use, Traffic, and Recreation Elements.

2-7 Environmental Considerations

TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

3. FORECASTS OF AVIATION ACTIVITY

3.1. Overview The forecasts of aviation activity form the basis and justification for all planning and development on an airport. The forecasts are the basis for determining how many and what type of facilities will be needed within designated periods. The periods are typically divided into three groups. The first period is the Short-term period and usually occurs within the first five years of the forecast (2015-2019). The second period is the Medium-term period and usually takes place within the second five years of a forecast (2020-2024). The third, or Long-term, period usually takes place within the last ten years of the forecast (2025-2034).

To adequately forecast the future needs of the Tavares Seaplane Base, specific forecasts or projections are necessary for a seaplane base with the characteristics of the Tavares Seaplane Base. These forecasts include:

• Based Aircraft o Single Engine o Multi-engine • Aircraft Operations o Annual Operations • Peak Period Activity o Peak Month o Average Day of the Peak Month o Peak Hour of the Average Day 3.2. Previously Developed Aviation Forecasts Typically, when developing forecasts for an airport, forecasts that have been previously developed for the airport are reviewed. These forecasts could include those that are developed by the FAA, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), or forecasts that might have been developed in previous master plan studies for the subject airport.

The FAA annually develops forecasts for the airports that are included in the National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems (NPIAS). There are nearly 3,400 existing and proposed airports within the NPIAS. Each of these airports is significant to national air transportation and thus, they are eligible to receive federal grants under the Airport Improvement Program (AIP). The Tavares Seaplane Base is not yet listed within the NPIAS and thus the FAA has not developed forecasts of aviation activity for the Seaplane Base. If they had been developed, they would be contained in the FAA Terminal Area Forecasts (FAA TAF).

There are currently about 800 seaplane bases (SPB) within the United States. Of these, 361 are public-use seaplane bases, and 439 are private. About 85 percent of either the public-use airports or the private seaplane bases have an assigned FAA identifier. Tavares Seaplane Base has the FAA identifier of FA1.

3-1 Forecasts of Aviation Activity TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Most of the United States seaplane bases are in Alaska, which has about 184 seaplane bases. Minnesota ranks second with 94 seaplane bases and Florida ranks third with 70 seaplane bases. Of the 70 seaplane bases in Florida, only five are public-use facilities. Two of these are co-located at airports and three of them are stand-alone seaplane bases as shown in Table 3-1.

Table 3-1 FLORIDA PUBLIC USE SEAPLANE FACILITIES

Nautical Miles From Direction FAA ID Florida City Seaplane Base (SPB) or Airport Tavares From Tavares FA1 Tavares Tavares Seaplane Base & Marina 0 0 F57 Winter Haven Jack Brown's SPB 44.6 S FIN Palm Coast Flagler County Airport 48.3 NE SGJ St Augustine Northeast Florida Regional Airport 72.4 NNE X44 Miami Watson Island International SPB 199.4 SSE

Of the approximately 800 seaplane bases in the United States, only 31 are listed in the NPIAS. Twenty–seven of these are in Alaska, two in Washington, and one each in Florida and New York. The single seaplane base listed in Florida is the Miami Seaplane Base.

The 2015 FAA TAF aviation forecast for the Miami Seaplane Base lists its 2014 annual seaplane operations at 1,950. It also shows no growth in operations through the year 2040. In fact, of the 31 seaplane bases in the NPIAS for which the FAA has developed a TAF, none of the seaplane bases show any growth in activity from the year 2014 through the year 2040.

The reason no growth is shown for these facilities could be because the purpose of the FAA TAF is to determine the FAA workload attributable to a particular airport or seaplane base. As seaplane bases do not have the typical airport airfield infrastructure of concrete or asphalt runways and taxiways, which require regular maintenance and refurbishment, the workload for the FAA would be considerably reduced and could even be forecast as static, as is shown in those seaplane bases where forecasts have been developed by the FAA.

The FAA TAF, for those seaplane bases for which forecasts have been developed, also shows the historical operations of these seaplane bases, as reported by the seaplane bases. The reporting of annual operations by these facilities is often sporadic and even more often is a guess. The historical number of operations for each of the 31 seaplane bases within the NPIAS is shown in Table 3-2. By far, most the seaplane bases have lost annual operations over the years.

3-2 Forecasts of Aviation Activity TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Table 3-2 HISTORICAL SEAPLANE BASE OPERATIONAL ACTIVITY

Warm North Spring Coffman Excursion Kitoi Meyers Whale Point Port Tenakee Thorne New Friday Airport Akutan Angoon Bay Cove Craig Inlet Haines Hollis Hoonah Hyder Juneau Kake Kasaan Bay Klawock Kodiak Chuck Pass Pelican Petersburg Baker Protection Sitka Springs Bay Wrangell Yakutat Miami York Harbor Kenmore

State AK AK AK AK AK AK AK AK AK AK AK AK AK AK AK AK AK AK AK AK AK AK AK AK AK AK AK FL NY WA WA

Year/ID KQQA PAGN BNF KCC CGA EXI 3Z9 HYL OOH 4Z7 5Z1 KAE KXA KKB AQC T44 84K 96Z PEC 63A KPB 19P A29 TKE KTB 68A 2Y3 X44 6N7 W33 S60 1,336 6,302 1,100 10,568 700 575 65,100 500 1,800 350 3,020 7,900 700 2,320 6,068 2,000 3,500 875 67,325 1996 1,336 3,000 1,100 2,500 700 575 65,100 500 1,800 350 3,020 7,900 700 800 950 2,000 3,500 875 40,000 1997 5 3,000 1,100 2,500 700 575 65,100 1,000 500 1,800 12,500 350 3,020 7,900 700 800 950 2,000 3,500 875 40,000 1998 5 3,000 1,100 2,500 700 575 65,100 1,000 500 1,800 12,500 350 3,020 7,900 700 800 950 2,000 3,500 8,400 40,000 1999 5 3,000 200 1,100 2,500 700 250 200 800 575 65,100 1,000 500 1,800 12,500 800 350 3,020 7,900 700 250 5,000 800 950 2,000 200 3,500 8,400 8,600 40,000 2000 5 3,000 200 1,100 2,500 700 250 200 800 575 65,100 1,000 500 1,800 12,500 800 350 3,020 7,900 700 250 5,000 800 950 2,000 200 3,500 8,400 8,600 40,000 2001 5 3,000 200 1,100 2,500 700 250 200 800 575 65,100 1,000 500 1,800 12,500 800 350 3,020 7,900 700 250 5,000 800 950 2,000 200 1,950 8,400 8,600 40,000 2002 5 3,000 200 1,100 2,500 700 250 200 800 575 65,100 1,000 500 1,800 12,500 800 350 3,020 7,900 700 250 5,000 800 950 2,000 200 3,500 8,400 8,600 40,000 2003 1,460 3,000 200 1,100 2,500 700 250 5,800 800 575 65,100 1,000 500 1,800 12,500 800 350 3,020 7,900 700 250 5,000 800 950 2,000 200 3,500 8,400 8,600 40,000 2004 1,456 3,100 200 1,063 2,254 700 250 5,690 800 575 65,100 805 500 1,800 12,500 800 350 3,174 7,900 700 250 5,000 738 994 2,000 200 3,500 8,400 8,600 40,000 2005 1,456 3,100 200 1,063 2,254 700 250 5,690 800 575 65,100 805 500 1,800 12,500 800 350 3,174 7,900 700 250 5,000 738 994 2,000 200 3,500 8,400 8,600 40,000 2006 1,456 3,100 200 1,063 2,254 700 250 5,690 800 575 65,100 805 500 1,800 12,500 800 350 3,174 7,900 700 250 5,000 738 994 2,000 200 3,500 8,400 8,600 40,000 2007 52 1,150 300 475 2,254 700 250 450 800 105 65,100 1,000 400 1,800 12,500 5,000 330 350 350 7,900 330 330 4,750 650 1,519 340 200 1,950 1,000 8,600 48,300 2008 52 1,150 300 475 2,254 700 250 450 0 105 0 1,000 400 1,800 0 5,000 330 350 350 7,900 330 330 4,750 650 1,519 340 0 1,950 1,000 8,600 48,300 2009 102 1,150 300 475 2,254 700 250 450 0 105 0 1,000 400 1,800 0 5,000 330 350 350 7,900 330 330 4,750 650 1,519 340 0 1,950 1,000 8,600 48,300 2010 50 1,150 300 475 2,254 700 250 450 0 105 0 1,000 400 312 0 5,000 330 350 350 7,900 330 330 4,750 650 875 340 0 1,950 500 8,600 41,000 2011 102 1,150 300 475 2,254 700 250 450 0 105 350 1,000 400 1,800 0 5,000 330 350 350 7,900 330 330 4,750 650 1,519 340 0 1,950 1,000 8,600 41,000 2012 102 1,150 300 475 2,254 700 250 450 0 105 350 1,000 400 1,800 130 5,000 330 350 350 7,900 330 330 4,750 650 1,519 340 0 1,950 1,010 8,600 41,000 2013

AACG -14.0% -9.5% 3.2% -4.8% -8.7% 0.0% 0.0% 6.4% 100.0% -9.5% -26.5% 0.0% -1.3% 0.0% -26.2% 0.0% -5.7% 0.0% -11.9% 0.0% -4.3% 2.2% -0.4% -7.2% -7.8% -9.9% -100.0% -3.4% 0.8% 0.0% -2.9%

Note: AACG= Average Annual Compounded Growth

3-3 Forecasts of Aviation Activity

TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

However, upon looking more closely, most losses have occurred since the economic crisis of 2008. Where this has occurred, the annual operations have either remained constant since then or have slowly begun to recover.

Similarly, for the 31 seaplane bases listed in the NPIAS, only four had any based aircraft associated with the seaplane base. Three of these airports were in Alaska and one was in Washington. Again, the FAA projected no growth in the number of based aircraft at these four facilities through the year 2040. Typically, seaplanes are not based at a seaplane base, unless there is an air taxi business based there. Seaplane owners typically like to have their seaplane docked at their own pier.

The FDOT also periodically develops forecasts for airports within its system. The Tavares Seaplane Base was accepted into the FDOT Florida Aviation System Plan (FASP) in February 2017. Simultaneous to the development of this Master Plan, the FDOT is updating the FASP. It is anticipated that the FDOT will develop a forecast for the Tavares Seaplane Base. However, this had not occurred at the time of the writing of this Master Plan.

Currently, there are two seaplane bases in the FASP. They are the Jack Brown Seaplane Base (F57) located in Winter Haven, and the Miami Seaplane Base (X44) located in Miami. FDOT has not developed a forecast of aviation activities for the Miami Seaplane Base as it uses the Port of Miami’s deep-water channel and turning basin for seaplane operations. The Department of Homeland Security has restricted activity in the channel. Due to the increased security, all seaplane operations must be coordinated with the U.S. Coast Guard prior to any operations. This restricts the number of operations that can occur.

In 2011, FDOT developed a forecast of operations for the Jack Brown Seaplane Base. This forecast indicates that the seaplane base had 10,000 operations in 2009. It also forecast an average annual growth in operations of 0.5 percent per year through the year 2029.

When completing the Tavares Seaplane Base Public Airport Site Approval Application for FDOT, a forecast of aviation activities was developed for the Seaplane Base. The forecast of annual operations is shown in Table 3-3 and Figure 3-1.

3-4 Forecasts of Aviation Activity TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Table 3-3 FDOT SITE APPLICATION FORECAST FOR ANNUAL OPERATIONS

Year Historical Forecast 2010 1,511 2011 3,717 2012 3,940 2013 5,240

2018 14,200 2023 11,696

AACG 2010-2013 51.4% 2013-2018 22.1% 2018-2023 -3.8% 2013-2023 8.4% 2010-2023 17.0%

AACG = Average Annual Compounded Growth

Figure 3-1 FDOT SITE APPLICATION FORECAST FOR ANNUAL OPERATIONS

16,000 14,000 12,000 10,000 8,000 6,000 4,000 2,000 0

Historical Forecast

3-5 Forecasts of Aviation Activity TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

3.3. Historical Operations The City of Tavares has been diligently tracking several parameters associated with the Tavares Seaplane Base since its inception. It has tracked the number of operations that has occurred at the Seaplane Base on a daily basis. These are shown in Table 3-4 and Figure 3-2

Table 3-4 TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE HISTORICAL OPERATIONS

Change Change Change 2012 2013 from 2014 from 2015 from Month Operations Operations 2012 Operations 2013 Operations 2014 January 356 472 33% 272 -42% 440 62% February 366 504 38% 388 -23% 404 4% March 398 612 54% 532 -13% 572 8% April 458 712 55% 706 -1% 550 -22% May 256 514 101% 402 -22% 706 76% June 280 324 16% 404 25% July 356 348 -2% 282 -19% August 252 316 25% 338 7% September 266 326 23% 334 2% October 330 632 92% 476 -25% November 398 356 -11% 366 3% December 354 472 33% 446 -6% Total 4,070 5,588 37% 4,946 -11%

Figure 3-2 TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE HISTORICAL OPERATIONS

800 700 600 500 400 300 200 100 0

2012 Operations 2013 Operations 2014 Operations 2015 Operations

3-6 Forecasts of Aviation Activity TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Table 3-4 and Figure 3-2 show the number of operations that have occurred at Tavares from January 2010 through May of 2015. This is a period of 41 months or almost 3.5 years. Typically, when developing forecasts, the FAA will use at least ten years of data and preferably 20 years. These longer periods give a much broader view of how a facility would fair through good times and bad, as well as changes in administration.

The available data for Tavares is, however, encouraging as it shows a healthy number of operations that have been sustained over the period. Overall, the number of operations at Tavares has increased at an average annual compounded rate of 10.2 percent. It is not anticipated that the Seaplane Base will be able to sustain such growth year after year throughout the planning period. 3.4. Forecast of Annual Operations Based on the limited amount of historical data for the Tavares Seaplane Base, as well as the data obtained for other seaplane bases that have been accepted into the NPIAS, three forecasts of annual operations were developed that would consider a high, medium and a low forecast of annual operations. The High Forecast considers the growth in operations that the Tavares Seaplane Base is currently enjoying while taking into consideration that this rate of growth is not likely to remain so buoyant throughout the planning period, but will probably slow somewhat as the Seaplane Base matures. The Medium Forecast would begin at the same level of operations as the High Forecast, but the annual average compounded rate of growth would slow more quickly than the High Forecast. The Low Forecast would reflect the forecast presented in the FAA TAF for all seaplane bases within the NPIAS. The Low Forecast would have no growth in annual operations. The three forecasts of annual operations are shown in Table 3-5 and Figure 3-3.

Table 3-5 FORECAST OF ANNUAL OPERATIONS

Historical High Forecast of Medium Forecast Low Forecast of Annual Annual of Annual Annual Year Operations Operations Operations Operations

2012 4,070 2013 5,588 2014 4,946

2019 7,300 5,600 4,900 2024 9,300 6,300 4,900 2029 11,000 7,100 4,900 2034 12,100 8,000 4,900 Annual Average Compounded Growth 2014-2019 8.1% 5.3% -0.2% 2020-2024 5.0% 2.4% 0.0% 2025-2029 3.4% 2.0% 0.0% 2030-2034 1.9% 1.0% 0.0% 2014-2034 4.6% 2.7% 0.0%

3-7 Forecasts of Aviation Activity TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Figure 3-3 FORECAST OF ANNUAL OPERATIONS

14,000

12,000

10,000

8,000

6,000

4,000

2,000

0 2012 2017 2022 2027 2032

Historical High Medium Low

It was determined that the Medium Forecast would provide the most viable forecast for the Tavares Seaplane Base, as City of Tavares is actively promoting the Seaplane Base and has made seaplanes the theme of the City, in that it is actively incorporated into the economic development, marketing, and indeed, the identity of the City. 3.5. Historical Based Aircraft There are usually very few seaplanes based at seaplane bases, unless there is a charter or air taxi service based at the seaplane base. Most seaplane owners prefer to park their aircraft at the end of their own pier. Of the 31 seaplane bases in the NPIAS, only four currently have based aircraft. Three of the four seaplane bases suffered loss of numbers of based aircraft during the economic downturn beginning in 2008. Indeed, an additional seven seaplane bases that had based seaplanes prior to 2008 no longer have any based seaplanes. The four NPIAS seaplane bases that still have based seaplanes are as follows:

• Trident Basin in Kodiak, Alaska with 13 based seaplanes in 2013 • Sitka in Sitka, Alaska with six based seaplanes in 2013 • Lloyd R Roundtree Seaplane Facility in Petersburg, Alaska with seven based seaplanes in 2013 • Kenmore Air Harbor in Kenmore, Alaska with 24 based seaplanes in 2013

All but one of these facilities suffered some amount of loss of based seaplanes during the 2008 economic downturn. Trident Basin in Kodiak, Alaska is the only one of the four that actually increased the number of based seaplanes. They have an average annual compounded growth (AACG) rate of 2.0 percent for the years 2000 through 2013. The remaining three had the following average annual growth rates for the listed span of years:

3-8 Forecasts of Aviation Activity TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

• Sitka had an AACG of -4.2 percent between 2000 and 2013 • Lloydd R. Roundtree Seaplane Facility had an AACG of -3.2 percent between 1996 and 2013 • Kenmore Air Harbor had an AACG of -6.0 percent between 1990 and 2013

The document Seaplane Facilities printed by the U.S. Department of Commerce in 1950 states that “During 1948, only 2,048 of the 94,821 aircraft in the United States were registered as seaplanes.” Today, the FAA does not consider whether or not an aircraft has wheels, floats or skis, as many of the aircraft are easily converted from one mode to another. However, the Seaplane Pilots Association, the preeminent organization for protecting and promoting the water flying community, estimates on its website www.seaplanes.org that there were approximately 8,000 seaplanes in operation in the United States in 2014. This would represent an average annual compounded growth rate of 2.0 percent for the number of seaplanes in the United States. If this number were to be projected onto the current number of based aircraft at Tavares Seaplane Base, the following forecast would result as shown in Table 3-6 and Figure 3-4.

Table 3-6 BASED SEAPLANE FORECAST

Historical Forecast Single- Multiple Single- Multiple Year engine Engine engine Engine 2012 3 1 2013 3 1 2014 3 1

2019 3 1 2024 4 1 2029 4 1 2034 4 1

AACG 2014-2019 2.0% 2.0% 2019-2024 2.0% 2.0% 2024-2034 2.0% 2.0% 2014-2034 2.0% 2.0%

3-9 Forecasts of Aviation Activity TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Figure 3-4 BASED SEAPLANE FORECAST

7 6 5 4 3 2 1

0

2016 2012 2013 2014 2015 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027 2028 2029 2030 2031 2032 2033 2034

Historical Single-engine Historical Multi-Engine Forecast Single-engine Forecast Multiple Engine

3.6. Peaking Activity Peak activity forecasts are used to size facilities. Typically, aircraft do not land and takeoff consistently from one hour to the next or even from one month to the next. The peak activity forecasts typically projected are the peak month, the average day of the peak month, and the peak hour of the average day. The peaking forecasts are not intended to forecast the busiest hour of the busiest day of the year. If a facility were designed to accommodate the busiest day of the busiest month of the year, the facility would be underutilized most the year. By designing to the peak hour of the average day of the peak month, the result is a facility that is comfortably utilized about 85 percent of the year. There will be times when the facility is underutilized, and there will also be times when it is crowded for short periods.

The Tavares Seaplane Base has been keeping daily records of the facility since it opened. The highest levels of activity occur in April and October of each year, or May in 2015, when the City of Tavares hosts a “splash-in” or fly-in at the Seaplane Base. April/May usually edges out October for the overall number of operations. Typically, there are contests and prizes at the “splash-in,” and as there are hotels and restaurants within easy walking distance of the Seaplane Base, these events are becoming increasingly popular. Based on the years 2012 through 2014, April averages 12.8 percent of the annual aviation activity. The 12.8 percent was used to calculate the peak month activities through the year 2034 as shown in Table 3-7.

3-10 Forecasts of Aviation Activity TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Table 3-7 PROJECTED PEAK MONTH OPERATIONS

Total Annual Peak Month Average Day Peak Hour Year Operations Operations Operations Operations

2014 4,946 633 21 2

2019 5,600 717 24 2 2024 6,300 806 27 3 2029 7,100 909 30 3 2034 8,000 1,024 34 3

To calculate the average day of the peak month activity, the peak month activities are divided by the number of days in the month. In this case, there are 30 days in April. No historical data is available to determine the peak hour operations at the Seaplane Base. Therefore, an estimate of a tenth of the average day operations was used to calculate the peak hour operations. 3.7. Summary of Aviation Activity Forecasts The methods used to forecast aviation demand for the Tavares Seaplane Base are a little unusual to those used by the FAA and FDOT as the Tavares Seaplane Base has so little historical data. Additional data was sought from similar seaplane bases. However, as explained in this chapter, again, little data was available. However, forecasts for both the annual operations and based aircraft were developed for the Tavares Seaplane Base for the next 20 years, without being too optimistic or too conservative. Table 3-8 shows an overview of the selected forecasts.

Table 3-8 SUMMARY OF AVIATION ACTIVITY FORECASTS

2014 2019 2024 2029 2034 Based Aircraft Fleet Mix Single-engine Seaplanes 3 3 4 4 4 Multiple Engine Seaplanes 1 1 1 1 1 Total 4 4 5 5 5 Annual Operations Annual Operations 4,946 5,600 6,300 7,100 8,000

3-11 Forecasts of Aviation Activity TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

4. FACILITIES REQUIREMENTS This chapter builds upon the Inventory of Existing Conditions and the Forecast of Aviation Activities chapters to develop an understanding of how many and what types of facilities will be required to meet the forecast demand. It compares what is already available with what will be required over the next 20-year planning period and determines in five-year increments what facilities are likely to be needed and when. 4.1. Airspace There are three commercial service airports located within 60 nautical miles of the Tavares Seaplane Base. These are augmented by 29 public-use general aviation airports and 14 private general aviation airports located within 60 nautical miles. In addition, there are 32 private seaplane bases and one public seaplane base within 60 nautical miles of the Tavares Seaplane Base. Jack Brown’s Seaplane Base in Winter Haven is the public-use seaplane base. The seaplane ramps at Flagler County and Northeast Florida Regional Airports have been counted as general aviation airports as the seaplane ramps supplement the general aviation activities of these airports.

In addition, there are two Military Operating Areas (MOA) located north of the Seaplane Base; Palatka 1 MOA and Palatka 2 MOA. There is also the 30-nautical mile Mode C “veil” associated with the Class B airspace at Orlando International Airport (MCO) located immediately to the southeast of the Seaplane Base. The Orlando-Sanford International Airport (SFB) Class C airspace is immediately to the east and within the MCO Class B airspace. Leesburg International Airport (LEE) located to the west of the Seaplane Base has a Class D airspace, when their air traffic control tower is active. However, based on available data, no known airspace conflicts currently exist. 4.2. Approaches There are many types of approaches that can be executed into airports. There are those that occur during Visual Flight Rule (VFR) operations and those that occur during Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) operations. VFR operations are those that occur under Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC) that are clear enough that the pilot can see where the aircraft is going. VFR minima are 1,000 feet above mean sea level altitude and three statute mile flight visibility. IFR minima are anything below VFR. IFR operations are those that occur during Instrument Meteorological Conditions (IMC), or where the pilot’s visibility is obscured.

IFR approaches are designed so that the pilot of an aircraft in IMC can land safely by using a combination of instruments within the aircraft and electronic guidance from either ground based or satellite navaids such as Global Positioning System (GPS), or Inertial Navigation System (INS) navigation without assistance from air traffic control. IFR approaches are generally classified as either precision or non-precision approaches. Precision approaches are those that provide both lateral (through use of a localizer or a very high frequency omnidirectional range (VOR)) and

4-1 Facilities Requirements TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida vertical (through use of a glideslope) electronic information. Non-precision approaches provide lateral information only.

The Tavares Seaplane Base does not have any published instrument approaches. The facility currently only supports operations conducted under Visual Flight Rules. The City of Tavares has expressed an interest in developing a GPS approach for the seaplane base in the future. GPS is a satellite-based navigation system that provides location and time information in all weather, anywhere there is an unobstructed line of sight to four or more GPS satellites. The U.S. government maintains the GPS system and it is freely accessible to anyone with a GPS receiver. 4.3. Part 77 Surfaces Code of Federal Regulations (CFR) Title 14, Chapter 1, Part 77, Objects Affecting Navigable Airspace (Part 77), sets criteria for protecting airspace near airports. These regulations define numerous airspace surfaces that exist on and around airports. The size and dimensions of these surfaces are dependent upon the runway type, i.e. utility, or non-utility, and the approved or planned approach procedures. Objects, whether natural or man-made, should not penetrate these defined Part 77 surfaces. Because the Tavares Sea Lane is not marked, the airspace above it is not protected. The FAA and the FDOT recommend that the City of Tavares mark the sea lane in order to gain airspace protection under 14 CFR Part 77 and Florida Statutes. The dimensions of the existing Part 77 surfaces for the Tavares Seaplane Base are given in Table 4-1 and the surfaces themselves are depicted in Figure 4-1.

Table 4-1 EXISTING PART 77 SURFACES

Visual Runway Utility (in feet) (Runway Surface 9/27) Width of Primary Approach Surface and Approach Surface Width at Inner End 250 Radius of Horizontal Surface 5,000 Approach Surface Width at End 1,250 Approach Surface Length 5,000 Approach Slope 20:1

4-2 Facilities Requirements TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Figure 4-1 EXISTING VISUAL RUNWAY PART 77 SURFACES

4.4. Sea Lanes The existing, unmarked Sea Lane 9/27 is 200 feet wide by 3,000 feet long. The 200-foot width is the recommended minimum as it incorporates a 200-foot diameter turning basin at each end of the sea lane, which allows a pilot to maneuver. The 3,000-foot long runway is greater than the 2,500-foot required length for a sea lane located near sea level. Lake Dora, where the sea lane is located, is approximately 61 feet above sea level.

Section 1.3.2 of this master plan shows that the existing sea lane does not have 95 percent wind coverage for IFR conditions at 10.5 knots of wind. This does not mean that a crosswind sea lane is required. Seaplane pilots can land into the wind in a 360-degree pattern. They are not obliged to use the designated sea lane. Additionally, the City of Tavares does not intend to institute an IFR approach, at this time. However, the City may consider a non-precision approach in the future, which will likely require that the sea lane also be marked at that time. If the landing area is to be marked in the future, it must be done in accordance with Chapter 14-60 of the Florida Administrative Code and consistent with the U.S. Coast Guard regulations.

4-3 Facilities Requirements TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Many seaplane pilots prefer an unmarked sea lane as this allows the pilot more flexibility to accommodate landing and take-off operations to compensate for changing weather conditions, including weather; varying water currents; and wave heights by taking advantage of the entire water operating area. However, 14 CFR § 77.3 indicates that a “seaplane base is considered to be an airport only if its sea lanes are outlined by visual markers.” For this reason, the FAA requires that seaplane bases desiring to be included within the National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems (NPIAS) have marked sea lanes. The FAA advises that a minimum of two visual markers identifying each end of the sea lane be installed. A marked sea lane provides the added safety benefits of ease of identification of the Part 77 imaginary surfaces. 4.5. Runway Design Code Each runway on an airport has an established Runway Design Code (RDC), which is determined by the Aircraft Approach Category (AAC), the Airplane Design Group (ADG), and the approach visibility minimums for that runway. The first component, the AAC, is depicted by a letter and relates to aircraft approach speed as shown in Table 4-2.

Table 4-2 AIRCRAFT APPROACH CATEGORIES

Aircraft Approach Aircraft Approach Speed Category A Approach speed less than 91 knots B Approach speed 91 knots or more but less than 121 knots C Approach speed 121 knots or more but less than 141 knots D Approach speed 141 knots or more but less than 166 knots E Approach speed 166 knots or more

The second component, the ADG, is depicted by a Roman numeral and relates to either the wingspan or the tail height of the aircraft; whichever is more restrictive. The levels of the ADG are shown in Table 4-3.

Table 4-3 AIRPLANE DESIGN GROUPS

Group Tail Height in Feet Wingspan in Feet Number I Less than 20 Less than 49 II 20 to less than 30 49 to less than 79 III 30 to less than 45 79 to less than 118 IV 45 to less than 60 118 to less than 171 V 60 to less than 66 171 to less than 214 VI 66 to less than 80 214 to less than 262

4-4 Facilities Requirements TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

The third component, the approach visibility minimums, are expressed by Runway Visual Range (RVR) values in feet of 1200, 1600, 2400, and 4000 as shown in Table 4-4. The third component should read “VIS” for runways designated with a visual approach only.

Table 4-4 VISIBILITY MINIMUMS

RVR in FEET Flight Visibility Category in Statute Miles 4,000 Lower than 1 mile but not lower than ¾ mile (APV ≥ ¾ but <1 mile) 2,400 Lower than ¾ mile but not lower than ½ mile (CAT-I PA) 1,600 Lower than ½ Mile but not lower than ¼ mile (CAT-II PA) 1,200 Lower than ¼ mile (CAT-III PA) Note: APV = Approach Procedure with Vertical Guidance

To assist in determining the appropriate spatial requirements and operational capabilities for the Seaplane Base, design criteria are based on the largest aircraft known as the design or critical aircraft that is anticipated to regularly use the Seaplane Base during the planning period. Use of an airport on a regular basis is considered to be 500 or more annual operations conducted by a particular aircraft or aircraft group. A review of aircraft forecast to use the Tavares Seaplane Base reveals that aircraft in the ACC Category A will be the most demanding aircraft to regularly use the Seaplane Base. This includes the Grumman Widgeon, the Cessna 185, the Husky A1-B, and the Piper J3 Cub.

The largest aircraft from the standpoint of wingspan to regularly use the Seaplane Base fall within the ADG Group I and include all the aircraft listed above. Based on planning guidelines, the Seaplane Base should be designed to accommodate aircraft in the Aircraft Design Category I. It is recommended that the Grumman Widgeon be designated the Seaplane Base’s Critical Aircraft. This aircraft has an approach speed of 68 knots, a wingspan of 40 feet, a tail height of 11’-5”, and a Gross Weight of 4,525 pounds.

A visibility of not less than one mile has been implemented at the Seaplane Base. Therefore, the visibility minimum is Visual or “VIS”. Given the above parameters, Sea Lane 9/27 would have an RDC of A-I-VIS. The RDC is based on current or planned development and does not have an operational application. 4.6. Airport Reference Code The FAA has established a tiered system of Airport Reference Codes (ARC), which determines the design standards for runways, separation distances, safety areas, and many other facilities. The ARC is an airport designation that signifies the airport’s highest RDC minus the third component, visibility minimums. Thus, the ARC for the Seaplane Base would be an A-I. This is not projected to change unless the fleet mix at the Seaplane Base changes significantly. An aircraft with a higher AAC and/or ADG would have to document 500 or more annual operations before this change would be considered.

4-5 Facilities Requirements TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

4.7. Taxi Channel The existing taxi channel is approximately 1,900 feet long by 125 feet wide and leads directly from the sea lane to the seaplane ramp at the Tavares Seaplane Base. This taxi channel is sufficient to meet the requirements of the Seaplane Base throughout the planning period. 4.8. Seaplane Ramp The Tavares Seaplane Base is located within Wooton Park along the northern shoreline of Lake Dora. It currently has a co-located ramp that is used by seaplanes and boats as shown in Figure 4-2. The fixed, concrete boat ramp is located east of the seaplane ramp, is approximately 35 feet wide and approximately 42 feet long to the water’s edge. The fixed, concrete seaplane ramp is located immediately west of the boat ramp. Each of the ramps has a fixed, unobstructed pier that is located east of the ramp and is from eight to eleven feet wide and extends over the water for approximately 60 to 75 feet.

Figure 4-2 EXISTING TAVARES SEAPLANE RAMP

The marina traffic has consistently used both the boat ramp and the seaplane ramp, resulting in some damage to the seaplane ramp, as the slope requirements for a seaplane ramp are shallower than those for launching boats. The slope for a seaplane ramp should not be greater than 6:1; however, slopes that are even shallower ranging down to 10:1 are typically preferred.

The City of Tavares has determined that it will construct a new marina ramp approximately 1,000 feet west of the existing ramps. This will allow a segregation of the seaplanes and boats and will provide greater boat trailer parking and maneuvering areas for the boats.

An added benefit of the marina relocation within Wooton Park is the opening of the area immediately in front of the existing ramps. It is recommended that the area immediately in front of a seaplane ramp have a minimum width of about 100 feet. This will provide unobstructed water

4-6 Facilities Requirements TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida operating area or a turning basin between the taxi channel and the sea plane ramp for greater safety. 4.9. Piers Piers are fixed over-water structures that allow easy parking and access to boats and seaplanes. In addition to the two piers that are associated with the seaplane and boat ramps, there are six additional piers at the Tavares Seaplane Base and Marina as shown in Figure 4-3. At the far eastern edge of Wooton Park, there is a 40-foot wide pier that is associated with a recently completed, two-story events pavilion. No seaplanes typically park at this pier except at special events associated with the pavilion.

Moving westward, there is an “L” shaped pier that together with another “L” shaped pier form a sheltering basin for boats and seaplanes. When parked on the shore side of either of the two piers, the seaplanes are provided a breakwater during inclement weather. Approximately 10 seaplanes can dock on either side of these two piers.

Figure 4-3 TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE AND MARINA PIERS

Between the two “L” shaped piers is a “T” shaped pier that is used by Jones Brothers & Co., the sightseeing tour and aircraft charter operator, to park two of their seaplanes. This pier extends over the water by approximately 45 feet with the crosspiece of the “T” measuring approximately 48 feet.

The pier located immediately west of the seaplane ramp is used primarily for the parking of boats. However, there are two slips that have been designed for seaplanes immediately adjacent to the seaplane ramp. These two slips are used to refuel seaplanes.

4-7 Facilities Requirements TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

The westernmost pier is also used for boats. However, it also has a crosspiece that forms a “T” to the boat slips along which seaplanes can park. This pier also is the location of the Seaplane Base Air Markers. This pier is capable of docking three seaplanes.

Together, the existing piers currently are capable of parking about 18 seaplanes, depending on the size of the aircraft. Jones Brothers & Co. uses four of these spaces for their based aircraft, leaving about 14 spaces for itinerant aircraft. The number of based seaplanes is anticipated to increase to six seaplanes over the forecast period. This would leave 10 to 12 of the existing pier docking spaces for itinerant aircraft.

It is anticipated that, except during the seaplane events, there will probably only be six to seven transient aircraft requiring docking or parking facilities at any one time. With the 10 to 12 docking positions remaining after the based aircraft are accounted for, and not yet including any aircraft tie-down parking on the apron, it appears as if there will be sufficient docking available at the piers for both the based and itinerant seaplanes under typical conditions.

Cleats should be spaced along the sides of the piers to secure seaplanes with ropes. Additionally, bumpers installed along the sides of the pier and extending below the edge of the deck are recommended to prevent damage to the floats of the seaplanes. 4.10. Seaplane Apron As with the ramps and piers, the existing seaplane apron is shared with the marina, which means that facilities for both seaplanes and boat trailers are currently located on the 16,500-square foot asphalt apron as shown in Figure 4-4. The designated seaplane area is currently approximately 250 square feet and is delineated by painted containment lines and the words “Seaplane Parking Only” painted on the pavement. During special seaplane events, boat trailer parking is restricted and the entire area can be used for seaplane parking.

The existing 250 square feet of seaplane parking will typically allow the parking of only one or two small seaplanes. With the relocation of the marina to the west, the existing apron has the capacity of parking four to five seaplanes of an Airplane Design Group I, aircraft with wingspans up to 49 feet (FAA Aircraft Design Group I).

4-8 Facilities Requirements TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Figure 4-4 TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE APRON

4.10.1. Apron Tie-down Anchors Currently there is only one set of tie-down anchors available for the seaplanes parked on the apron. It is recommended that additional tie-down anchors be installed in the apron pavement. This will not only ensure that aircraft are not damaged in high or gusty wind conditions, but it will also ensure that parked aircraft are given sufficient clearance between aircraft.

4.10.2. Hoisting Equipment Amphibious aircraft are capable of directly accessing the seaplane base apron. However, straight float aircraft require a hoist, a towed trailer, or other maneuvering system such as a rail system, dolly, or lift. Currently, there are no hangar or maintenance facilities at the Tavares Seaplane Base and it is unlikely that straight float aircraft will require hoisting to the apron for any other reason. Straight float seaplanes can be accommodated at the piers or can be beached and secured directly on shore in the sheltered basin.

The City of Tavares does not currently anticipate locating maintenance or hangar facilities at this facility. However, should hangars or maintenance facilities be located at the Seaplane Base in the future, the City is open to the possibility of locating hoisting equipment near the seaplane ramp.

4-9 Facilities Requirements TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

4.11. Aircraft Storage Hangars The Tavares Seaplane Base is located in Wooton Park, a shoreline park owned and operated by the City of Tavares. As such, the City of Tavares does not currently anticipate providing hangars for either the based or itinerant aircraft. However, Leesburg International Airport is located 4.4 nautical miles northwest of the Tavares Seaplane Base. Leesburg is interested in housing seaplanes, both amphibious and straight float planes, in hangars. Leesburg is currently designing a seaplane ramp and is anticipating that construction of this ramp will be completed by mid-2017.

It is understood that because a floatplane sits higher than a wheeled aircraft that regular aircraft hangar door openings and facilities may not allow seaplanes to be stored at most traditional T- hangars and some conventional hangars. 4.12. Aviation Fuel Service There are currently two fueling stations located adjacent to the seaplane apron as shown in Figure 4-5. One is on the south side of the seaplane apron, just west of the seaplane ramp. The second is on the pier located west of the seaplane ramp. Each station dispenses 100 LL fuel and 90 octane ethanol free unleaded. Currently both the seaplanes and boats are served from these two stations. The City of Tavares is about to construct a new boat ramp and staging area about 1,000 feet to the west of the existing seaplane ramp. The intent is to draw the boats over to the new marina and leave the existing seaplane and boat ramps for the seaplanes. Drawings for the new boat ramp do not show fueling at the new location. If this is the case, boats would still be required to utilize the seaplane apron and the pier for fuel.

4-10 Facilities Requirements TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Figure 4-5 FUELING STATIONS

4.13. The “Prop Shop” The “Prop Shop” serves as the Seaplane Base Terminal. The one-story-building of approximately 730 square feet houses the City-operated Fixed Base Operator (FBO) as well as a flight planning area, rest area, and pilot shop with sundries. Adjacent and connected to the “Prop Shop” is an approximately 175 square foot area that serves as the offices and staging area for the Seaplane Base’s sole tenant, Jones Brothers & Co., a seaplane tour and aircraft charter company.

It is anticipated that the “Prop Shop” will continue to serve the needs of the FBO and Jones Brothers & Co. for at least the next five to ten years. As the charter business expands, however, it is anticipated that the charter and tour services may relocate to the City-owned trailhead building located northeast of the “Prop Shop” or another facility. 4.14. Relocation of the Tav-Lee Trail The 10.4-mile Tav-Lee Trail is a planned and partially constructed, regional shared-use trail for walkers and bicyclists. The Trail will eventually connect the downtowns of Tavares and Leesburg and will connect with other regional trails. Currently, only part of the Trail has been completed and it travels from downtown Tavares to the Lake Square Mall. Part of the Trail that has been constructed bisects the Tavares Seaplane Apron and separates the apron from the existing seaplane and boat ramps as shown in Figure 4-6. This channels all users of the Trail through the activity of the seaplane ramp and apron and causes a potential conflict and safety issue between the users of the Trail and those of the Seaplane Base. Further, the location of the Trail prevents the placement of security fencing around the Seaplane Base. It is recommended that the Tav-

4-11 Facilities Requirements TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Lee Trail be relocated to travel around and north of the Seaplane Base and south of the railroad tracks.

Figure 4-6 LOCATION OF THE TAV-LEE TRAIL

4.15. Tav-Lee Trailhead Building One of the Tav-Lee trailhead buildings is located northeast of the “Prop Shop.” When the operations of the charter and tour operator, Jones Brothers & Co. reach a level where they can no longer comfortably operate from the facilities connected to the “Prop Shop,” the City proposes to move them into the trailhead building. This location is centrally located to the piers used by the charter and tour operator, restroom facilities, parking, and the ‘Prop Shop,” as well as the bars, restaurants, and hotels located within walking distance in downtown Tavares. 4.16. Security Fencing and Automated Gate Currently, there is no security fencing around the seaplane base. Indeed, pedestrians and cyclists using the Tav-Lee trail are directed right through the heart of the Seaplane Base. As part of the relocation of the Tav-Lee Trail, it is proposed that a security fence be installed around the Seaplane Base to the shoreline of Lake Dora. Due to the highly visible location of the Seaplane Base, typical security fencing (e.g. six-foot high chain link fencing with barbed wire) may not be desirable. Rather, it is proposed that a decorative metal fence be installed.

Currently, vehicular access to the seaplane apron is provided via an access drive intersecting with Ruby Street and travels over the railroad line before entering the Wooton Park area northeast of the seaplane ramp. Another access drive extends southwest to the seaplane ramp. When the fence is put into place, it is proposed that an automated gate be installed with access control.

4-12 Facilities Requirements TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Access control would be keyed to the “Prop Shop.” The “Prop Shop” is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. seven days a week. Care should be taken when positioning the gate so that if a vehicle is not granted access or the “Prop Shop” is closed, the vehicle has an area in which to turn around.

The primary reason for the access to the seaplane apron is the delivery of fuel, which should only happen during the operating hours of the “Prop Shop.” However, emergency vehicles such as fire engines and ambulances will also require access to the seaplane apron. These vehicles require at least 14 feet in width for a gate and would prefer 16 feet in case there is another vehicle in front of the gate. These vehicles should be equipped with transponders to open the gates when the “Prop Shop” is closed. 4.17. Seaplane Base Identification It is recommended that seaplane bases utilize a few devices to allow pilots better visibility of the seaplane base during inclement weather and night operations. The City of Tavares does not currently encourage nighttime operations, as they wish to be a good neighbor to the noise sensitive homes and communities currently located around Lake Dora and within the vicinity. However, there are other facilities that could allow for identification of the seaplane base without encouraging nighttime operations.

4.17.1. Lighting Within the Water Operating Area If the City of Tavares were to light the water operating area of Lake Dora, this would most likely consist of a series of small, battery-operated lights on top of buoys or other flotation devices. However, the City of Tavares does not currently plan to light the Water Operating Area or encouraging nighttime use of the facility.

4.17.2. Rotating Beacon The FAA recommends that a rotating beacon be located to identify a seaplane landing area during periods of low visibility. The light for water landing area beacons is alternate white and yellow. The beacon could be located on the shore near the seaplane base support area.

4.17.3. Wind Cone It is always beneficial for pilots to be knowledgeable of the existing wind conditions and it is no less so for seaplane pilots. The seaplane base currently has a wind cone located on the westernmost pier. It is recommended that a second wind cone be placed on the shore of Lake Dora near the Seaplane Base apron or on one of the eastern piers.

4.17.4. Shoreline Lighting It is recommended that shoreline lighting near the seaplane ramp and apron be installed to illuminate the aprons, ramps, and piers. Not only will the lighting provide illumination of the area and assist in locating the facility, it will also aid in the security of the facility. When designing the lighting, care should be taken to locate the lights in such a way as to prevent the light from traveling to a pilot’s eyes either directly or by reflection while landing, taking off, or taxiing.

4-13 Facilities Requirements TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

4.17.5. Seaplane Base Air Marker The Tavares Seaplane Base has a Seaplane Base Air Marker located on the crosspiece of the westernmost pier. A Seaplane Base Air Marker is an anchor symbol used to designate a seaplane base and is painted on a flat surface that is easily visible from the air. While only one symbol is recommended, Tavares offers three such anchor symbols on the surface of the pier. 4.18. Aircraft Maintenance Like other aircraft, seaplanes require a thorough, annual inspection and periodic preventative maintenance. As with aircraft storage hangars, the City of Tavares does not anticipate providing aircraft maintenance facilities or services at the Tavares Seaplane Base. However, the Leesburg International Airport located 4.4 nautical miles’ northeast of the Tavares Seaplane Base currently has a Factory Endorsed Service Center for seaplanes ranging in size from an Aviat Husky to a Twin Otter. Leesburg currently does not have a seaplane ramp, but has one under design. Construction is anticipated to be complete by mid-2017. 4.19. Restroom Facilities The seaplane base currently has one unisex public restroom located in the “Prop Shop,” that is compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act. Additionally, as a part of Wooton Park, public restroom facilities are provided within 150 feet of the Seaplane Base, as shown in Figure 4-7. Additionally, there are numerous restaurants, bars, and hotels within walking distance of the Seaplane Base.

Figure 4-7 PARKING AND RESTROOMS

4-14 Facilities Requirements TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

4.20. Vehicular Parking and Rental Cars There are no vehicular parking spaces related directly to the Tavares Seaplane Base. There is, however, vehicular parking associated with Wooton Park and there are approximately 40 parking spaces located within 250 feet of the “Prop Shop.” There are also 12 vehicular parking spaces located in a City owned lot directly north of the seaplane apron, across the railroad tracks and south of Ruby Street. It is unlikely that either of these lots could be used for long-term parking, but they would be available for Jones Brothers & Co., “Prop Shop” customers, and for taking short seaplane trips, tours and charter packages.

The FBO currently does not provide rental cars for lease. To date, the majority of the itinerant pilots have found most of the hotels and restaurants in downtown Tavares within easy walking distance of the Seaplane Base. It should be considered that limited rental car parking be provided either as a stand-alone operation by the FBO, or in conjunction with an existing rental car operation already in effect through a local hotel. 4.21. Road Access The Tavares Seaplane Base is accessed directly from Ruby Street, which is a city street running parallel to the Lake Dora shoreline. Ruby Street is also one block south of Main Street, the primary downtown street of the City of Tavares. 4.22. Facility Requirements Summary The Facility Requirements Forecast, which is based on the Aviation Activity Forecasts, indicates the following facility requirements:

• Additional parking area for seaplanes on the seaplane apron • Apron tie-down anchors • Re-location of the Tav-Lee Trail • Safety and security fencing around the seaplane base • A rotating beacon • Apron lighting • Supplemental wind cone • Rental car parking

These requirements will be addressed in the next chapter; The Development and Evaluation of Alternatives.

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TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

5. DEVELOPMENT AND EVALUATION OF ALTERNATIVES

5.1. Introduction This chapter takes into consideration the facility requirements developed in the last chapter. The facility requirements were developed to address the requirements of the Seaplane Base based on the Forecasts of Aviation Activity. The potential of new, rehabilitated, or replacement facilities is considered in this chapter. This chapter looks not only at the improvements that could ideally be made to the Seaplane Base, but also considers how these improvements will affect the Seaplane Base operationally, while avoiding as much as possible any environmental impacts. 5.2. Development of Alternatives The facility requirements were generated based on the Forecasts of Aviation Activity and were created to develop the required facilities immediately prior to when they would most likely be needed. However, future events do not always follow a predictable timeline. Future events could change the development that is required. The Seaplane Base should be developed so that the facilities meet the identified demand and minimize the operational constraints. Facilities should not be implemented if the demand has not materialized as forecast.

5.2.1. Potential Instrument Approach The City of Tavares has stated that it would consider a non-precision instrument approach to the sea lane as long as lighting and buoys are not required. Table 3-4, Standards for Instrument Approach Procedures, of FAA Advisory Circular 150/5300-13A, Airport Design, states that runways with visibility minimums greater than or equal to one mile with a straight-in approach would require Medium Intensity Runway Lights (MIRL) or Low Intensity Runway Lights (LIRL.) However, there is a note that indicates runway edge lighting is required for night approach minimums. The City of Tavares does not wish to encourage night time operations at the Seaplane Base.

It is likely that the FAA will require that the sea lane be marked in order to issue an Instrument Approach procedure. 14 CFR Paragraph 77.3 states “a seaplane base is considered to be an airport only if its sea lanes are outlined by visual markers.” While this is not conclusive, additional discussions with the FAA would be warranted. Should the Tavares sea lane be marked in the future, it should be done in accordance with Chapter 14-60 of the Florida Administrative Code and the U.S. Coast Guard regulations.

5.2.2. Sea Lane Improvements The existing Sea Lane 9/27 does not meet the 95 percent wind coverage for Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) conditions at 10.5 knots of wind. Currently, the Tavares Sea Lane is a visual sea lane only. If the Seaplane Base desires in the future to operate under IFR conditions, it should consider adding a second sea lane that would complement the existing sea lane to provide full coverage of 10.5 knots of wind under IFR conditions. The addition of the second sea lane is not

5-1 Development and Evaluation of Alternatives TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

as essential as a crosswind runway at a land-based airport as seaplane pilots can land into the wind in a 360-degree pattern with or without a designated sea lane.

The existing Sea Lane is not currently marked with buoys. The City of Tavares has chosen not to mark the sea lane. If the City were to apply to be placed into the National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems (NPIAS), the FAA would require that any sea lanes associated with the Seaplane Base be marked with buoys. Other than 14 CFR Paragraph 77.3 and the NPIAS, there is no requirement to mark the Sea Lane.

5.2.3. Seaplane Ramp The existing concrete seaplane ramp associated with the Tavares Seaplane Base is in Wooton Park in the City of Tavares. It is approximately 35 feet wide and approximately 45 feet long to the water’s edge of Lake Dora and is co-located just west of the Park’s existing boat ramp. The concrete boat ramp is approximately 40 feet wide and 42 feet long to the water’s edge. Each of the ramps has a fixed, unobstructed pier that is located east of the respective ramp, is from eight to eleven feet wide, and extends over the water for approximately 60 to 75 feet.

The City of Tavares is currently constructing a new boat ramp approximately 1,000 feet to the west of the existing ramps. When the new boat ramp is complete, it is planned that the existing boat ramp would be reconstructed with one, single slope conducive to the use by seaplanes and will be utilized exclusively by seaplanes. This is shown in Figure 5-1.

By moving the marina traffic to the new boat ramp, the water immediately in front of the newly reconstructed seaplane ramp will provide an unobstructed water operating area in front of the reconstructed ramp. It is recommended that turning basins have a minimum width of about 100 feet. At Tavares, this area would be approximately 125 feet wide, providing an unobstructed water operating area between the taxi channel and the reconstructed ramp.

5.2.4. Piers There are currently six piers located near the Seaplane Base. These allow the parking of both boats and seaplanes. Together, the existing piers are capable of parking about 18 seaplanes, depending on the size of the aircraft. Jones Brothers & Co. uses four of these spaces for their based aircraft leaving about 14 spaces for itinerant aircraft. The number of based seaplanes is anticipated to increase to six seaplanes over the forecast period. This would leave 10 to 12 of the existing pier docking spaces for itinerant aircraft. Except for special events, it is forecast that only six to seven transient aircraft would require docking facilities at any one time. It is forecast that there will be sufficient pier docking spaces for seaplanes through the forecast period and no additional facilities would be required. The City currently hosts two “splash-ins” per year. During these events, the parking at the piers is well utilized and seaplanes are also beached along the shoreline of Wooton Park.

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5.2.5. Seaplane Apron Currently, the seaplane apron is shared between seaplanes and parking for boat trailers. The new boat ramp to the west will provide about double the number of boat trailer parking slots with better access. This will allow the 10 trailer parking slots located on the seaplane apron to be converted to seaplane parking. In addition to the existing area currently allocated for seaplane parking, this can be converted into tie-down parking spaces for approximately two to three aircraft, depending on the size of the aircraft. Given the number of docking positions at the piers, two to three parking spaces with tie-downs should be sufficient for the forecast based and itinerant aircraft. It is recommended that the seaplane apron be remarked for seaplane parking and that tie-down anchors be installed in the apron pavement.

5.2.6. Seaplane “Slips” At the public meeting associated with this master plan process, a suggestion was made to include several “slips” along the edge of Lake Dora for parking seaplanes along the shoreline. It is envisioned that each slip would be dug into the shoreline, which would be supported with a seawall type structure lined with metal panels and dock bumpers. The proponent suggested a small structure be placed near each slip to allow for the storage of items not immediately needed on the seaplane.

The City of Tavares is open to the construction of several slips along the shoreline, but is less enthusiastic about the potential for multiple small structures near the slips as it is felt that the structures would take away from the desired ambience of Wooton Park. Consideration might be given to a single structure with small storage areas within it. The City will survey current pilots of the Seaplane Base to determine the desire for such facilities.

5.2.7. Supplemental Wind Cone The Tavares Seaplane Base currently has one wind cone. It is desired that a supplemental wind cone be installed. It is recommended that the supplemental wind cone be located relatively far from the existing wind cone. Potentially, an FAA Size 2 wind cone, which handles higher velocity winds, could be placed on a high pole near the existing water park and could become part of the seaplane theme for the water park while offering needed information to the seaplane pilots on Lake Dora. Alternatively, an FAA Size 1 wind cone, which handles winds of a lesser velocity, could be placed on or near the pier that is located just west of the Events Pavilion.

5.2.8. Tav-Lee Trail The Tav-Lee Trail, which is a public access trail for pedestrians, bicyclists, and others, traversing across all or part of Lake County, Florida, currently travels across the seaplane apron. This does not provide a high level of safety for either the people using the Tav-Lee Trail or for the seaplanes and the boats currently accessing the apron. It is recommended that the Tav-Lee Trail be relocated around the Seaplane Base in a manner similar to that shown in Figure 5-1.

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5.2.9. Safety and Security Fencing and Gates Largely because the Tav-Lee Trail traverses across the seaplane apron, there is no fencing of any kind around the Seaplane Base. It is recommended that a decorative fence be placed around the three non-water sides of the Seaplane Base to reduce the interaction between pedestrians, bicyclists, and seaplanes. It is not foreseen that this fence would be a true security fence. Rather, it would be a decorative divide that would prevent unwary interactions from occurring. It has been discussed that perhaps six-foot high fence would provide more security, especially between the parked aircraft and the relocated Tav-Lee Trail. However, the City of Tavares is investigating a perimeter radar security system. It is intended that the radar system be used in conjunction with a four-foot high decorative fence that will not impede the view of the seaplane base. The report of the investigation that Security Radar Integrators completed for the City with respect to the Seaplane Base can be found as Appendix J.

It is envisioned that there would be a traffic arm gate located at the entrance to the Seaplane Base drive as it is accessed from Ruby Street. An intercom between this position and the “Prop Shop” would be located next to the traffic arm gate and the “Prop Shop” would allow vehicular access to the Seaplane Base. A second set of gates located south of the relocated Tav-Lee Trail would also allow vehicular traffic to the seaplane apron while keeping unauthorized pedestrians from gaining access to the apron. Additional pedestrian gates have been shown in the fence, one on the west side of the apron and one on the east side.

Two fencing alternatives have been provided. The primary difference between the two alternatives is whether the “Prop Shop” should be placed within the fence or outside of the fence. The proposed fencing and gates are shown in Figure 5-2 and Figure 5-3.

5-4 Development and Evaluation of Alternatives TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Figure 5-1 TAV-LEE TRAIL RELOCATION AND RECONSTRUCTED SEAPLANE RAMP

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TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Figure 5-2 PROPOSED FENCING ALTERNATIVE ONE

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TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Figure 5-3 PROPOSED FENCING ALTERNATIVE TWO

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TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

5.2.10. Rotating Beacon The FAA recommends that an alternating white and yellow rotating beacon be located to identify a seaplane landing area during periods of low visibility or at night. As the City does not intend to light the Sea Lane, a rotating beacon is not a requirement. Nor does the City of Tavares intend to encourage nighttime operations at the Seaplane Base. For this reason, it is recommended that if a rotating beacon is placed at the Seaplane Base that the beacon be pilot activated at night, as it is believed that the light be might be a nuisance to the hotels and other entertainment venues situated along the waterfront.

Several potential sites for the location of the beacon are possible. The only requirements are that it be as high as possible and within 5,000 feet of the end of the Sea Lane. This would allow the beacon to be placed on one of the shoreline hotels, the Lake County Administration Building, or even the public parking garage located on Sinclair Avenue. However, the City of Tavares does not own any of these locations. It is possible that the beacon could be placed on top of the Tavares City Hall, which is owned by the City. If it is determined that the beacon should be placed on the Seaplane Base, proposed locations for such a beacon are shown in Figure 5-4.

5.2.11. Seaplane Apron Lighting Currently, there is little lighting on the seaplane apron. It is proposed that relatively low, decorative lighting be added to the area to aid visibility after dark and to reduce potential mischief in the area. Potential locations for the decorative lighting are shown in Figure 5-5. However, the number and spacing of the lights will vary depending upon the actual fixtures and lamps ultimately chosen.

5.2.12. Rental Car Parking Most Fixed Base Operators (FBOs) at land based airports offer rental car options for those itinerant pilots and/or passengers needing local transportation. Cursory review of rental car locations in and around Tavares reveals that there are no rental car locations within walking distance of the Tavares Seaplane Base. However, there are rental car companies, such as Enterprise, that will deliver rental cars on demand to most locations. Typically, however a parking space must be available for this transaction. It is proposed that an arrangement be made with at least one rental car company that will deliver rental cars on demand. At least one parking position could be designated for rental car parking in one of two lots near the Tavares Seaplane Base or adjacent to the existing handicapped position on the seaplane apron as shown in Figure 5-6.

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TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Figure 5-4 ROTATING BEACON LOCATION ALTERNATIVES

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TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Figure 5-5 POTENTIAL SEAPLANE APRON LIGHTING

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TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Figure 5-6 RENTAL CAR PARKING SPACE ALTERNATIVES

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TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

5.3. Evaluation of Alternatives and Recommended Preferred Alternative The requirements of the Facility Requirements Forecast, which are based on the Aviation Activity Forecasts indicate the following facility requirements:

• Additional parking area for seaplanes on the seaplane apron • Apron tie-down anchors • Re-location of the Tav-Lee Trail • Safety and security fencing around the seaplane base • A rotating beacon • Apron lighting • Supplemental wind cone • Rental car parking

This chapter has addressed each of the above issues and alternative solutions have been proposed. The resulting facilities will continue to be addressed in further detail in the following chapters. The proposed facilities will be placed on the Seaplane Base Layout Plan and the funding and phasing of each facility will be addressed in the Capital Improvement Program.

The City of Tavares is currently in the process of designing and constructing a boat ramp to be located approximately 1,000 feet west of the existing boat ramp along the shoreline of Lake Dora. When complete, it is anticipated that all the boat traffic, including the trailer parking would relocate to the new boat ramp area leaving the existing boat ramp, seaplane ramp, and seaplane apron to the exclusive use of the seaplanes. This will result in additional space for seaplane parking on the apron increasing the number of parking spaces. The total number is dependent on the size of the aircraft using the area.

The new boat ramp facility will not include new fueling facilities for boats. Both seaplanes and boats will continue to use the fueling facilities located on the pier immediately west of the existing seaplane ramp. If the interaction between the boats and seaplanes becomes congested, the City of Tavares might, in the future, consider adding additional fueling facilities for boats near the new boat ramp.

Only one alternative to the existing location of the Tav-Lee Trail is proposed. The tightness of the Seaplane Base area doesn’t allow additional alternatives. Therefore, the new Tav-Lee Trail alternative was the only selected alternative.

Two alternatives were proposed for the decorative safety fencing to be placed around the Seaplane Base. The primary difference between the two alternatives is whether the “Prop Shop” would be included within the fence or not. The alternative that shows the “Prop Shop” outside of the fence was selected as it is believed that the public should not be impeded in any way from accessing the “Prop Shop.” It is also believed that for safety reasons, the fence should reduce

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the number of persons without business in the area from entering onto the seaplane apron, the seaplane ramp, or the boat ramp.

There are several locations where the rotating beacon could be placed, including the Lake County Administrative Building, the public parking garage entered from Sinclair Avenue, or one of the lakeside hotels. However, as these facilities are owned and operated by entities other than the City of Tavares, gaining permission to mount the beacon on these facilities might not be viable. Therefore, the selected preferred alternative is the Rotating Beacon Alternative One shown on Figure 5-4. This alternative is on City of Tavares land, the base is sufficiently away from the water, and it is contained within the proposed Seaplane Base fence.

A single alternative was shown for the apron lighting. Much will depend on the height of the fixtures and the lamps selected. These considerations will determine the number and placement of the fixtures. However, the alternative shown gives an approximation of the area that is proposed to be covered by the lighting of the Seaplane Base.

Three alternatives were proposed for a designated rental car parking space to be used by a rental car company that would provide a rental car to the Seaplane base on demand. Alternative Two was selected as it is deemed to be most convenient to the Seaplane Base.

By combining the selected alternatives, a composite Recommended Preferred Alternative has been developed and is shown in Figure 5-7. 5.4. Development and Evaluation of Alternatives Summary This chapter takes into consideration the Facility Requirements forecasts developed in the last chapter, which are based on the Aviation Activity Forecasts. This chapter developed alternatives that address the potential growth of the Seaplane Base, while considering the existing facilities. These considerations resulted in a recommended Preferred Alternative as shown in Figure 5-7.

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Figure 5-7 RECOMMENDED PREFERRED ALTERNATIVE

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TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

6. SEAPLANE BASE LAYOUT PLAN SET

6.1 Introduction This chapter describes the Seaplane Base Layout Plan (SBLP) set for the development of the Tavares Seaplane Base from 2015 through 2034, presents the Airport’s compliance with Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) design standards, and presents a reduced size SBLP set. The SBLP graphically illustrates the existing facilities of the Seaplane Base, as well as the proposed development based on the aviation forecasts, facility requirements, and the alternatives analysis. An SBLP set is made up of the SBLP drawing, as well as other supporting drawings that are appended to the SBLP drawing. The FAA Advisory Circular 150/5070-6B, Airport Master Plans, states five primary functions of an Airport Layout Plan (ALP) that define its purpose. As a seaplane base is an airport these principles also apply: • The approved plans are necessary in order to receive financial assistance under terms of the Airport and Airway Improvement Act of 1982 (AIP), as amended, and specific passenger facility charge actions. The maintenance of a current plan and conformity to the plan are grant assurance requirements at an airport on which Federal funds have been expended under the AIP Program (ADAP) and the Federal Air Airports Program (FAAP) of 1946, as amended. While ALPs are not required for airports other than those developed with assistance under the previously mentioned federal programs, this guidance can be applied to all airports. • The plans create a blueprint for airport development by depicting proposed facility improvements consistent with the strategic vision of the airport sponsor. The plans provide a guideline by which the airport sponsor can assure that development maintains airport design standards and safety requirements, and is consistent with airport and community land use plans. • The ALP serves as a public document that is a record of aeronautical requirements, both present and future, and as a reference for community deliberations on land use proposals and budget resource planning. • The approved ALP provides the FAA and the FDOT with a plan for airport development. This will allow compatible planning for FAA owned facility improvements at the Airport. It also allows the FAA and the FDOT to anticipate needs for budgetary and procedural needs. The approved ALP will also allow the FAA to protect necessary airspace for planned facility or approach procedure improvements. • The plans can be a working tool for use by the City of Tavares and Airport management.

The Seaplane Base Layout Plan also adheres to the stipulations of the Florida Administrative Code (FAC) 14-60, Airport Licensing, Registration, and Airspace Protection. “The purpose of this rule is to promote civil aviation by eliminating hazards; to provide airfield standards for airports; to provide standards for airport marking and lighting; to license and register airports, pursuant to the

6-1 Seaplane Base Layout Plan Set

licensing and registration requirements of Chapter 330, F.S.; and to promote flight safety by providing for airspace protection, pursuant to the requirements of Chapter 333, F.S.”

The FAA and the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) require a complete ALP or SBLP set for consideration of future funding. Programming of FAA and FDOT funds are based on development projects depicted on the ALP/SBLP sheet. The FAA provides airport design standards to ensure safe and efficient airport operations. The plans have been developed in accordance with the following: • FAA Advisory Circular 150/5070-6B, Airport Master Plans • FAA Advisory Circular 150/5070-6B, Appendix F, Airport Layout Plan Drawing Set • FAA Advisory Circular 150/5300-13A, Airport Design • Federal Regulations Part 77, Objects Affecting Navigable Airspace • FAA ARP Standard Operating Procedures No. 2, ALP Review Checklist • FAA ARP Standard Operating Procedures No. 3, Exhibit ‘A’ Review Checklist • FDOT, Guidebook for Airport Master Planning • FAC 14-60, Airport Licensing, Registration and Airspace Protection The ALP/SBLP drawing set developed as a part of this master plan update complies with each of these documents. While the City of Tavares is not currently anticipating applying to the FAA for federal funds, the documents listed above are industry best practices. 6.2 SBLP Set The complete Tavares Seaplane Base Layout Plan set consists of nine drawings. The purpose of each drawing is described in this section. The SBLP drawings are produced on 24-inch by 36- inch sheets and are submitted by the City of Tavares, Florida to FDOT for review and approval. Reduced reproductions of the draft SBPL are included at the end of this chapter for illustration purposes. All the SBLP set drawings were created using AutoCAD version 2012.

6.2.1 Cover Sheet The cover sheet of the SBLP set provides basic Seaplane Base data that is not found elsewhere on the SBLP. The cover sheet includes the Seaplane Base’s name, the associated city, date, the project name, FDOT grant number, and the name of Tavares, Florida as the Airport Sponsor. The cover sheet also displays a location map, which indicates the Seaplane Base, major cities in Florida, and major roads near the Seaplane Base.

6.2.2 Data Sheet The data sheet is a separate sheet that contains the basic Seaplane Base and Sea Lane data tables. It also includes the wind roses and the wind observation data.

6.2.3 Seaplane Base Layout Plan The SBLP is a graphic representation of existing and future Seaplane Base facilities. The SBLP is the key document that reflects changes in physical features on and near the Seaplane Base, which may affect navigable airspace or the ability of the Seaplane Base to operate. The SBLP includes dimensional information for recommended development to be in accordance with FAA

6-2 Seaplane Base Layout Plan Set

planning and design recommendations outlined in FAA Advisory Circular 150/5300-13A, Airport Design, and 150/5070-6B, Airport Master Plans. Development shown on the SBLP corresponds to the Seaplane Bases’s Capital Improvement Program (CIP) for the 20-year period, with emphasis on the first five-year period.

6.2.4 FAR Part 77 Airport Airspace Drawing The Airport Airspace Drawing depicts “imaginary surfaces” that surround the Seaplane Base as defined in Federal Aviation Regulation (FAR) Part 77. They consist of the Primary Surface, the Approach Surface, the Transitional Surface, the Horizontal Surface, and the Conical Surface. The drawing is based on the runway configuration as planned to occur within the twenty-year planning period. There are no known obstructions.

6.2.5 Inner Portion of the Approach Surfaces for Sea Lane 9 While technically, this sheet is not required, as a seaplane is considered to be a marine craft once it has landed, Sheet Five shows the plan and profile views of the inner portion of the approach surface to Sea Lane 9 at the Tavares Seaplane Base. In addition to the approach surfaces contained in FAR Part 77, Objects Affecting Navigable Airspace, the drawing also depicts the threshold siting surface. There are no known obstructions.

6.2.6 Inner Portion of the Approach Surfaces for Sea Lane 27 As with the previous sheet, this sheet is not technically required; as a seaplane is a marine craft once it has landed on the water. Sheet Six shows the plan and profile views of the inner portion of the approach surface to Sea Lane 27 at the Seaplane Base. In addition to the approach surfaces contained in FAR Part 77, Objects Affecting Navigable Airspace, the drawing also depicts the threshold siting surfaces. There are no known obstructions.

6.2.7 General Aviation Building Area Plan The General Aviation Building Area Plan is the area surrounding the Seaplane Base, as shown on the SBLP, except at a larger scale for clarity.

6.2.8 Seaplane Base Exhibit ‘A’ Property Inventory Map This map depicts the overall property of the Seaplane Base and the Sea Lane. The City of Tavares owns the portion of Lake Dora upon which the Sea Lane is located, as well as the various parcels that make up the Seaplane Base.

6.2.9 Seaplane Base Exhibit ’A’ Property Inventory Detail Map This map depicts in greater detail the various parcels of land upon which the Seaplane Base currently sits. It also illustrates the proposed future boundary of the Seaplane Base. It is the intention of the City of Tavares to re-plat the affected properties to have one contiguous parcel for the Seaplane Base land portion of the property. This plan must be updated when the Seaplane Base changes any property boundary, acquires new property, or acquires new easements.

6-3 Seaplane Base Layout Plan Set

6.3 Seaplane Base Layout Plan Set Summary The Seaplane Base Layout Plan set represents the facility needs that have been justified and documented in the preceding chapters. This development of the Seaplane Base Layout Plan shows projects that are proposed to be completed within the next twenty years with an emphasis on the next five years.

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Figure 6-1 COVER SHEET

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TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Figure 6-2 SEAPLANE BASE DATA SHEET

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TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Figure 6-3 SEAPLANE BASE LAYOUT PLAN

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TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Figure 6-4 FAR PART 77 AIRPORT SURFACES AIRPORT VICINITY PLAN

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TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Figure 6-5 SEA LANE 9 INNER APPROACH PLAN

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TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Figure 6-6 SEA LANE 27 INNER APPROACH PLAN

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TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Figure 6-7 GENERAL AVIATION TERMINAL BUILDING PLAN

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Figure 6-8 EXHIBIT "A" SEAPLANE BASE PROPERTY INVENTORY MAP

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Figure 6-9 EXHIBIT "A" SEAPLANE BASE DETAIL MAP

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TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

7. CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM

7.1. Introduction The Capital Improvement Plan (CIP) is a guidance tool for the implementation of the findings and recommendations of the Master Plan. This CIP has been developed based on the needs of the Tavares Seaplane Base as justified in the Forecast of Aviation Activity chapter, identified in the Facility Requirements chapter, and developed in the Preferred Alternative. The goal of this chapter is to: • Provide a list of projects that will fulfill the Facility Requirements as illustrated in the Preferred Alternative and the Seaplane Base Layout Plan • Give a brief description of each project • Provide a general cost estimate of each project • Give general financial guidance to City of Tavares concerning potential funding sources • Provide a recommended schedule that balances the need for a project with the prospects of available funds for the project The various projects identified in the CIP are broken out into three periods: • Short-term (2017-2021) – five years • Mid-term (2022-2026) – five years • Long-term (2027-2036) – 10 years Although the implementation schedule presented in this chapter provides estimated time frames for initiating the proposed projects, continuous re-evaluation of the schedules will be necessary to account for changes in aviation demand, funding availability, and other unforeseen factors. Actual project implementation should generally occur just prior to when the actual need for an improvement is anticipated to occur and when funding for the project is available. This will allow the facility to be available just as the need is realized. Additionally, other improvements not identified in this report may be needed over the planning period. All projects noted in this chapter are compatible with the development noted on the Seaplane Base Layout Plan (SBLP) drawing as presented in the previous chapter. The project cost estimates presented in this chapter reflect a preliminary opinion of probable implementation costs. Among the items that are included in the implementation costs are construction costs, engineering, testing, and surveying fees, and a pricing allowance. All cost estimates are provided in 2016 dollars.

7-1 Capital Improvement Program TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

The projects have been scheduled in recognition of the probable availability of FDOT funds unless otherwise noted. The City of Tavares does not currently anticipate requesting Federal funds from the FAA. FDOT has informed the City that there probably will not be FDOT funds available for the Seaplane Base for the first five years after the Seaplane Base has been accepted in to the Florida Aviation System Plan (FASP), as FDOT funds have been programmed out for five years and these funds are currently well balanced between the programmed projects and the anticipated funding available. 7.2. Short-Term Projects (2017-2021) A list of Short-term projects is presented along with a rough order of magnitude cost estimate for each project. A probable breakdown of the funding sources for the individual projects is also presented in this chapter. The total project cost over the Short-term time frame is estimated at $287,700. While cost estimates for the completed projects are provided, the exact scopes of these projects have yet to be completed, and will be subject to change. These project costs are estimated as accurately as possible, based upon available data. Prior to the initiation of these projects, a detailed engineering investigation will be needed to obtain a more detailed cost estimate.

S-1 Re-platting of the Seaplane Base Property and Topographic Survey (2017)

Project Cost: $75,000

The City has identified the boundaries of the Seaplane Base as they wish to have them identified in the future. The identified future boundary, as shown on the Seaplane Base Property Map, currently consists of portions of six parcels currently owned by the City of Tavares. This project would perform a property search of the six parcels, perform a boundary survey of the proposed boundaries of the Seaplane Base, re-plat each of the affected parcels, perform a topographic survey, and perform a utility survey within the entire proposed boundary of the Seaplane Base. This project also includes the update of the Exhibit “A” Seaplane Base Property Inventory Map.

S-2 Automated Traffic Gates (2018)

Project Cost: $29,000

Two automated traffic gates would be installed at the beginning of the drive from the Wooton Park automobile parking lot. An additional two gates would be installed near the “Prop Shop” where the drive enters the seaplane apron. The entrance gate near the Wooton Park automobile parking area would be activated from the “Prop Shop” after communication from the gate. The exit gate from the gates at the Wooton Park automobile parking area and the two gates near the “Prop Shop” would be activated through pressure on a traffic loop embedded in the pavement.

7-2 Capital Improvement Program TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

S-3 Intercom from the Traffic Gate to the Prop Shop (2018)

Project Cost: $2,100

An intercom would be installed in conjunction with the installation of the automated traffic gates described in Project S-2. The intercom would be activated from the gate to speak with the “Prop Shop” to gain permission to access the seaplane apron with a vehicle.

S-4 Design of Relocation of Tav-Lee Trail (2019)

Project Cost: $10,000

The Tav-Lee Trail currently traverses the seaplane apron, allowing the public to walk across the seaplane apron unimpeded. This is dangerous to both the public and the seaplanes. This project would design the Trail to be relocated to the north side of the seaplane apron as illustrated in Figure 7-1. It is anticipated that the project would be constructed as Project S-5.

S-5 Construction of Relocation of Tav-Lee Trail (2020)

Project Cost: $83,600

The construction of the relocated Tav-Lee Trail would move it to the north side of the seaplane apron. The design of this project is anticipated to have occurred as Project S-4.

S-6 Rehabilitation of Existing Seaplane Apron (2021)

Project Cost: $90,000

The existing seaplane apron was constructed in 2010. It is anticipated that by the year 2021, it will require rehabilitation. This project also includes the additional aircraft tie-down rings, the re- marking of the apron, and the elimination of the “point” of the utility triangle up to the concrete pad upon which the electrical risers are located. This project will include the design and construction of the apron rehabilitation.

The Short-term Capital Improvement Program projects are summarized in Table 7-1. They are illustrated in Figure 7-1.

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Table 7-1 SHORT-TERM CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM PROJECTS

Project Estimated Year Number Project Description Project Cost 2017 S-1 Re-platting of the Seaplane Base Property and Topographic $ 75,000 2018 S-2 Traffic Arm Gates $ 29,000 2018 S-3 Intercom from Traffic Gate to Prop Shop $ 2,100 2019 S-4 Design of Relocation of Tav-Lee Trail $ 10,000 2020 S-5 Construction of Relocation of Tav-Lee Trail $ 83,600 2021 S-6 Rehabilitation of the Existing Seaplane Base Apron $ 90,000 TOTAL $ 289,700

7-4 Capital Improvement Program TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Figure 7-1 SHORT-TERM CIP PROJECTS

7-5 Capital Improvement Program

TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

7.3. Mid-Term Projects (2022-2026) The Mid-term projects have been identified for submittal to FDOT for funding purposes. The sum of the development project costs and anticipated funding needs over the Mid-term period is estimated to be approximately $545,000. The primary focus of the Mid-term program is the development of those projects that would enhance the safety and security of the Seaplane Base.

M-1 Master Plan Update (2022)

Project Cost $200,000

It is anticipated that a Master Plan Update will be warranted by the year 2022. This project would include an update of the Airport Layout Plan, and Exhibit “A” Property Map, as well as the Capital Improvement Program.

M-2 Decorative Fencing (2023)

Project Cost: $36,000

A “wrought iron” decorative fence that would be approximately four feet in height would be installed around the Seaplane Base as shown in Figure 7-2. The fence would be approximately 620 feet in length and would have three pedestrian gates; one at the east end of the seaplane apron and one at the west end of the seaplane apron. A third gate would be located adjacent to the handicapped parking space for access to the handicapped ramp.

M-3 Enhanced Shoreline with Tie-downs

Project Cost: $297,600

One methodology of parking a seaplane is to beach it on a shoreline. This project would enhance the existing approximately 620 lineal feet of shoreline within the proposed future limits of the seaplane base. It is proposed that the shoreline be stabilized and a “sandy beach” be constructed that would allow seaplanes to beach. Additionally, it is anticipated that approximately a dozen sets of tie-down anchors be permanently installed to allow the beached seaplanes to be anchored.

M-4 Design of Seaplane Apron Light Fixtures (2024)

Project Cost: $2,900

In order to enhance the security and visibility of the Seaplane Base and particularly the seaplane apron, twelve new decorative lights and poles would be installed. It is anticipated that these fixtures would be LED and would be light sensor activated. This project is for the design portion of the project only. The construction of this project would be accomplished in Project M-5.

M-5 Construction of Seaplane Apron Light Fixtures (2025)

Project Cost: $28,800

7-6 Capital Improvement Program TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

This project is the construction phase of the project described in Project M-4. This portion of the project would involve the procurement and installation of the light fixtures and poles, as well as the electrical service to the fixtures.

M-6 Seaplane Base Security System (2026)

Project Cost: $277,300

The City of Tavares investigated a perimeter radar security system. It is intended that the radar system be used in conjunction with the decorative fencing described in Project M-2 and the lighting described as Project M-4 and M-5. The report of the investigation that Security Radar Integrators completed for the City can be found as Appendix J. The report indicates that in order for the proper selection of cameras, the number and type of lighting in the area must first be known.

The Mid-term Capital Improvement Program projects re summarized in Table 7-2. They are illustrated in Figure 7-2.

Table 7-2 MID-TERM CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM PROJECTS

Estimated Project Project Year Number Project Description Cost 2022 M-1 Master Plan Update $ 200,000 2023 M-2 New Decorative Fencing $ 36,000 2024 M-3 Enhanced Shoreline with Tie-downs $ 297,600 2024 M-4 Seaplane Apron Lighting Design $ 2,900 2025 M-5 Seaplane Apron Lighting Construction $ 28,800 2026 M-6 Seaplane Base Security System $ 277,300

TOTAL $ 842,600

7-7 Capital Improvement Program TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Figure 7-2 MID-TERM CIP PROJECTS

7-8 Capital Improvement Program

TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

7.4. Long-Term Projects (2027-2036) Based upon the anticipated need and available funding, many projects associated with the preferred alternative of development will be developed over the ten-year, Long-term period. The total project development costs over the Long-term period are estimated at $1.7 million. The projects included in the Long-term period are:

L-1 Master Plan Update (2027)

Project Cost: $200,000

It is anticipated that another Master Plan Update will be warranted by the year 2027. This project would include an update of the Airport Layout Plan, the Exhibit “A” Property Map, as well as the Capital Improvement Program.

L-2 Modified Seaplane Ramp Environmental and Permitting (2028)

Project Cost: $73,000

Once the new marina ramp is constructed west of the existing seaplane and marina ramps, the existing marina ramp will no longer be required. It is planned that the dock that separates the marina and seaplane ramp would be removed along with the marina ramp. The existing seaplane ramp would be extended east to fill the void left by the marina ramp. This project would include any environmental analysis that may be required as well as permitting for the modification of the existing seaplane ramp at the seaplane apron. The design and construction of the demolition and extended seaplane ramp would be done with Projects L-3 and L-4.

L-3 Modified Seaplane Ramp Design (2029)

Project Cost: $103,000

The design of the demolition of the dock located between the existing marina and seaplane ramps and the existing marina ramp, as well as the design of the construction of the widening of the existing seaplane ramp would occur with this project. Demolition and construction of the project would occur with Project L-4.

L-4 Modified Seaplane Ramp Construction (2030)

Project Cost: $1,060,000

The demolition of the dock located between the existing marina and the seaplane ramps and the existing marina ramp, as well as the widening of the existing seaplane ramp would occur with this project.

7-9 Capital Improvement Program TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

L-5 Rehabilitation of Existing Seaplane Apron (2031)

Project Cost: $90,000

The existing seaplane apron was constructed in 2010. It is anticipated that it will have been rehabilitated in 2021 with Project S-6. By the year 2031, it will again require rehabilitation. This project will include the re-marking of the apron. This project will include both the design and construction of the Apron rehabilitation.

L-6 Master Plan Update (2032)

Project Cost: $200,000

It is anticipated that another Master Plan Update will be warranted by the year 2032. This project would include an update of the Airport Layout Plan, the Exhibit “A” Property Map, as well as the Capital Improvement Program.

L-7 Automated Weather Observing Station (AWOS) (2033)

Project Cost: $350,000

An Automated Weather Observing Station (AWOS) is operated by the Federal Aviation Administration and is defined as “a suite of weather sensors, which measure, collect and disseminate weather data to help meteorologists, pilots and flight dispatchers prepare and monitor weather forecasts, plan flight routes, and provide necessary information for correct takeoffs and landings.”

L-8 Supplemental Wind Cone (2033)

Project Cost: $250

The supplemental wind cone would be an FAA Style II (unlighted), Type L-806 (mounted on a low mass structure), Size 1 wind cone, orange in color, and made of nylon. The assembly would be of stainless steel with a stainless-steel bearing assembly and a frangible mounting pole. The size would be 18 inches in diameter and eight feet in length.

L-9 Design and Construction of a Designated Rental Car Parking Space (2034)

Project Cost: $3,500

This project would design and construct a designated rental car parking space on the seaplane apron adjacent to the existing handicapped stall. The handicapped stall would be moved north of its current location to access the handicapped ramp located west of the “Prop Shop.” Additionally, an area immediately adjacent to the electric car recharging station would be paved to accommodate the electric cars

7-10 Capital Improvement Program TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

L-10 Rotating Beacon (2035)

Project Cost: $7,000

The rotating beacon would have a 30-mile visibility range and 190,000 candlepower. It is assumed that the rotating beacon would be located on an existing structure such as the Tavares City Hall and that an appropriate electrical power source would be within a short distance of the installation site. The rotating beacon would have a 24/7 time-clock that would only be turned on as preset by the City or when activated by a pilot.

The Long-term Capital Improvement Program projects are summarized in Table 7-3. They are illustrated in Figure 7-3.

Table 7-3 LONG-TERM CAPITAL IMPROVEMENT PROGRAM PROJECTS Project Estimated Year Number Project Description Project Cost 2027 L-1 Master Plan Update $ 200,000 2028 L-2 Seaplane Ramp Environmental and Permitting $ 73,000 2029 L-3 Seaplane Ramp Design $ 103,000 2030 L-4 Seaplane Ramp Construction $ 1,060,000 2031 L-5 Rehabilitation of Existing Seaplane Apron $ 90,000 2032 L-6 Master Plan Update $ 200,000 2033 L-7 Automated Weather Observing Station (AWOS) $ 350,000 2033 L-8 Supplemental Wind Cone $ 250 2034 L-9 Construction of Designated Rental Car Parking Space $ 3,500 2036 L-10 New Rotating Beacon $ 7,000 TOTAL $ 2,086,750

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TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

Figure 7-3 LONG-TERM CIP PROJECTS

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TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

7.5. Potential Funding Sources The Tavares Seaplane Base relies primarily on revenues from tenants, fueling, and funding from the City of Tavares. One of the purposes of this Master Plan is to gain access to the Florida Aviation System Plan (FASP), which would allow the City access to Florida Department of Transportation funds. Funding from the FAA and State agencies such as the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) are very important to small airports such the Tavares Seaplane Base. While the main revenue from tenant leases and fuel sales may cover some operating costs, there are limited residual funds to cover the costs of necessary Airport capital improvement projects. However, state and federal funding sources typically come with restrictions in the form of grant assurances. For that reason, the City of Tavares has elected not to pursue FAA funding at this time.

Based upon the type of project, capital improvement projects may be eligible for FDOT funding or Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) funding. Tavares is located within the Lake-Sumpter MPO. However, the Seaplane Base will be competing with every other airport and transportation project in the MPO and the state for the same funding. Because a project is eligible for funding does not ensure that the funding will be received. The following sections describe several funding programs and general eligibility requirements associated with each.

7.5.1. Federal Funding While the City has elected not to pursue FAA funding at this time, this section will address FAA funding, should this decision be changed in the future.

The Airport Improvement Program (AIP) developed by the FAA has been established to assist in the growth of public-use airports within the National Plan of Integrated Airport System (NPIAS). To be eligible for funding through the AIP, the airport must be in the NPIAS. In order to be in the NPIAS, a Florida airport must first be in the Florida Aviation System Plan (FASP). While the City has elected not to pursue being in the NPIAS, it is their intent to enter the FASP.

The AIP provides grants to public-use airports such as the Tavares Seaplane Base for a wide variety of airport improvement projects. Projects funded by the AIP include runway and taxiway rehabilitation and construction, land acquisition, planning and environmental studies, navigational aid installation, and airfield marking and signage projects. For small seaplane bases, such as Tavares, the items that are eligible for AIP funding are relatively few and are typically of lower priority. For those projects that are eligible, the AIP will fund up to 90 percent of the eligible costs of the project. The remaining 10 percent is the responsibility of an airport’s local governing body and potential matching monies from the state.

The AIP allows for the annual disbursement of $150,000 to applicable General Aviation (GA) airports within the NPIAS. It is assumed that this program or one similar to it will continue throughout the planning period covered by this Master Plan. The annual $150,000 is referred to as Non-Primary Entitlement money. For an airport to receive this money it must be applied for

7-13 Capital Improvement Program TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

each year. Additionally, the money may only be used towards the development of projects that are approved for federal funding under the AIP.

When entitlement funds are not sufficient to cover the costs of AIP eligible projects, airports can also request from the FAA special funds called discretionary funds. To allocate those additional grants, the FAA has developed a priority ranking system, which accounts for the type of project and airport. Projects concerning runway safety are generally the first priority. From these rankings, the appropriate funds are distributed.

7.5.2. State Funding Like the FAA, FDOT has established a program to support the funding of various airport improvement projects. However, the Seaplane Base must be a part of the Florida Aviation System Plan (FASP), before it can receive FDOT Aviation funding. A Feasibility Study was completed in September of 2016 and was approved by FDOT and the East Central Region of the Continuing Florida Aviation System Planning Process (CFASPP) on February 2, 2017. A copy of the acceptance letter can be found as Appendix L to this Master Plan. This Master Plan and a Feasibility Study are two requirements before the Tavares Seaplane Base will be granted entrance into the FASP.

The FDOT aviation grant program provides funding to four major types of projects: airport planning, airport improvement, land acquisition, and airport economic development. Examples of projects funded under these different categories that may apply to the Tavares Seaplane Base include:

• Airport Planning: master plans and environmental assessments • Airport Improvements: terminal building improvements, lighting, security fencing and lighting, and security systems • Land Acquisition: acquisition of land, aviation easements, and potentially the re-platting of the Seaplane Base land • Airport Economic Development: building development and the development of other facilities that will enhance economic development.

Typically, FDOT would provide up to five percent of project costs when federal funding is available. When FAA funding is not available, FDOT would usually fund up to 50 or 80 percent of the total cost. Local entities typically cover the remaining cost of a project.

The FDOT has advised the City of Tavares that once the Seaplane Base is accepted into the FASP, that funding probably won’t be available for the first five years, as the FDOT typically programs its funds out five years in advance and these funds are currently well balanced against known, programmed projects. However, in many years, for a variety of reasons, the FDOT funds cannot be accepted by the prospective airport. With these finds available, the FDOT will look for other airports in the system with projects that are immediately ready for funding. For that reason, this Master Plan proposes that the re-platting of the Seaplane Base be ready if funds should become available.

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In addition to FDOT funding, the State of Florida has established numerous other economic development programs to provide incentives for companies to locate to Florida. These programs are administered through Enterprise Florida, a public-private partnership responsible for leading Florida's statewide economic development efforts. Some of the programs administered by Enterprise Florida include:

• Metropolitan Planning Organizations: The Lake-Sumpter Metropolitan Planning Organization does not directly fund projects. However, it can be of great assistance in locating potential funding sources for projects that benefit transportation within Lake and Sumpter Counties. They have assisted in locating funding for previous portions of the Tav-Lee Trail. • Qualified Target Industry Tax Refund: Available for companies that create high wage jobs in targeted high value-added industries • The High Impact Performance Incentive: A negotiated grant used to attract and grow major high impact facilities in Florida • Qualified Defense Contractor Tax Refund: Up to $5,000 is offered per job created or saved in Florida through the conversion of defense jobs to civilian production, the acquisition of a new defense contract, or the consolidation of a defense contract, which results in at least a 25 percent increase in Florida employment, or a minimum of 80 jobs • Capital Investment Tax Credit: is used to attract and grow capital-intensive industries in Florida • Enterprise Zone Incentives: Assortment of tax incentives to businesses that choose to create employment within an enterprise zone, which is a specific geographic area targeted for economic revitalization.

While these programs are not meant to fund airport improvement projects, they may be utilized to fund commercial development areas. Further information regarding Enterprise Florida and their economic development programs can be found at www.efllorida.com.

7.5.3. Local Funding While it is usually necessary for an airport or its sponsor to cover some percentage of the costs associated with airport projects, the local percentage is generally quite small compared to other entities. Where both the FAA and the FDOT participate on a project, the local share of the cost can be as low as two to five percent of the cost of the project. The City of Tavares has, to date, funded the construction and operation of the Seaplane Base largely out of its own coffers. 7.6. Potential Allocation of Funding Table 7-4 provides funding scenarios for the Short-, Mid-, and Long-term periods based upon current programs and eligible funding sources. It should be noted that these current programs are subject to change and the CIP should be updated at least annually to adjust for changes in funding and priorities as necessary. In addition to the funding sources, the projected cost estimated for the various improvement projects are also provided. Table 7-4 provides overviews of grant

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funding and cost over the planning development period. This table will need to be addressed continuously among all parties to the funding process, including FDOT and the MPO.

At the Tavares Seaplane Base, the proper management of funds is important to achieve self- sufficiency and to safely develop the Seaplane Base to match the projected growth over the planning period. It is recommended that the City of Tavares apply for all available grant money for which it is eligible. It is also imperative that the Seaplane Base management meet often with the local representatives of the FDOT to provide them with a clear, consistent vision of what the City desires to accomplish at the Seaplane Base.

By obtaining government assistance to fund airport improvements throughout the planning period, the ability of the Seaplane Base to progress toward operational and capital self-sufficiency will be greatly enhanced in future years. Additionally, a sound Capital Improvement Program may reduce the reliance of the Tavares Seaplane Base on City of Tavares aid as the Seaplane Base continues to grow and mature as an economic engine.

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Table 7-4 POTENTIAL ALLOCATION OF SHORT-TERM (2017-2021) AND MID-TERM (2022-2026) AND LONG-TERM (2027-2036) CIP PROJECT FUNDING

Fiscal Number Year Project Description FDOT Other* Tavares Total Cost Short-term Projects S-1 2017 Re-Platting of the Seaplane Base Property & Topo $ 60,000 $ - $ 15,000 $ 75,000 S-2 2018 Two Sets of Two Traffic Arm Gates $ - $ - $ 29,000 $ 29,000 S-3 2018 Intercom from Traffic Gates to Prop Shop $ - $ - $ 2,100 $ 2,100 S-4 2019 Design of the Relocation of the Tav-Lee Trail $ - $ 8,000 $ 2,000 $ 10,000 S-5 2020 Construction of the Relocation of the Tav-Lee Trail $ - $ 66,880 $ 16,720 $ 83,600 S-6 2021 Rehabilitation of the Existing Seaplane Apron $ 72,000 $ - $ 18,000 $ 90,000 Total Cost per Funding Agency $ 132,000 $ 74,880 $ 82,820 $ 289,700 Percentage of Cost per Funding Agency 45.6% 25.8% 28.6% 100.0% Average Annual Cost per Funding Agency $ 26,400 $ 14,976 $ 16,564 $ 57,940 Mid-term Projects M-1 2022 Master Plan Update $ 160,000 $ - $ 40,000 $ 200,000 M-2 2023 New Decorative Fencing $ - $ - $ 36,000 $ 36,000 M-3 2024 Shoreline Enhancement and Tie-downs $ 238,080 $ - $ 74,400 $ 297,600 M-4 2024 Seaplane Ramp Lighting Design $ 2,320 $ - $ 580 $ 2,900 M-5 2025 Seaplane Ramp Lighting Construction (12) $ 23,040 $ - $ 5,760 $ 28,800 M-6 2026 Seaplane Base Security System $ 221,840 $ - $ 55,460 $ 277,300 Total Cost per Funding Agency $ 645,280 $ - $ 212,200 $ 842,600 Percentage of Cost per Funding Agency 76.6% 0.0% 25.2% 100.0% Average Annual Cost per Funding Agency $ 129,056 $ - $ 42,440 $ 168,520 Long-term Projects L-1 2027 Master Plan Update $ 160,000 $ - $ 40,000 $ 200,000 L-2 2028 Seaplane Ramp Environmental and Permitting $ 58,400 $ - $ 14,600 $ 73,000 L-3 2029 Seaplane Ramp Design $ 82,400 $ - $ 20,600 $ 103,000 L-4 2030 Seaplane Ramp Construction $ 848,000 $ - $ 212,000 $ 1,060,000 L-5 2031 Rehabilitation of Existing Seaplane Apron $ 72,000 $ - $ 18,000 $ 90,000 L-6 2032 Master Plan Update $ 160,000 $ - $ 40,000 $ 200,000 L-7 2033 Automated Weather Observing Station $ 280,000 $ - $ 70,000 $ 350,000 L-8 2033 Supplemental Wind Cone $ 200 $ - $ 50 $ 250 Construction of Designated Rental Car Parking L-9 2034 Space $ 2,800 $ - $ 700 $ 3,500 L-10 2035 New Rotating Beacon $ 5,600 $ - $ 1,400 $ 7,000 Total Cost per Funding Agency $ 1,669,400 $ - $ 417,350 $ 2,086,750 Percentage of Cost per Funding Agency 80% 0% 20% 100% Average Annual Cost per Funding Agency $ 166,940 $ - $ 41,735 $ 208,675

Total Projects Total Cost per Funding Agency $ 2,446,680 $ 74,880 $ 712,370 $ 3,219,050 Percentage of Cost per Funding Agency 76.0% 2.3% 22.1% 100.0% Average Annual Cost per Funding Agency $ 122,334 $ 3,744 $ 35,619 $ 160,953

Note: MPO = Lake-Sumpter Metropolitan Planning Organization is anticipated to assist in locating funding for the Tav-Lee Trail.

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TAVARES SEAPLANE BASE Master Plan Tavares, Florida

7.7. Capital Improvement Program Summary The total estimated cost of the Short-term CIP projects is $289,700 over a five-year period beginning in 2017 and ending in 2021. Projects proposed for the Short-term period include: re- platting of the Seaplane Base property, installing traffic arm gates and intercom at the vehicular entrance to the Seaplane Base apron, relocation of the Tav-Lee Trail, and rehabilitation of the existing seaplane apron.

The potential funding of the proposed Short-term projects is as follows:

• FDOT $ 132,000.00 • Others 74,880.00 • City of Tavares 82,820.00

$ 289,700.00

The total estimated cost of the Mid-term CIP projects is $842,600 over a five-year period beginning in 2022 and ending in 2026. Projects proposed for the Mid-term period include: decorative fencing, seaplane apron lighting, shoreline enhancements, a Master Plan Update, and a Seaplane Base security system.

The potential funding of the proposed Mid-term projects is as follows:

• FDOT $ 645,280.00 • City of Tavares 212,200.00

$ 842,600.00

The total estimated cost of the currently identified Long-term CIP projects is $2,086,350 over a ten-year period beginning in 2027 and ending in 2035. Projects proposed for the Long-term period include: demolition of the dock between the existing marina and seaplane ramps, widening of the seaplane ramp, seaplane apron rehabilitation, a supplemental wind cone, and a rotating beacon.

The potential funding of the proposed Long-term projects is as follows:

• FDOT $ 1,669,400.00 • City of Tavares 417,350.00

$ 2,086,350.00

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