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physical improvements identified in the Master Plan. He stated that the Airport remains on
schedule to meet all required deadlines and preserve eligibility for available grant funding tied to
completion of the Master Plan.
Partnership Reports:
Mobile Innovation Center (MIC). Mr. Morello reported that post-award activities for the MIC
grant are progressing through frequent coordination meetings involving Airport staff, the
Economic Development Authority (EDA), and USI, the private partner for the three-year grant
program. He stated that current efforts are focused on developing a Memorandum of Agreement
(MOA) between the EDA and USI to define project responsibilities, reporting requirements, and
implementation procedures. Mr. Morello reported that USI will create and manage the mobile
command unit which will support research and development, training, and workforce
development activities at the Newport News Park Radio Control Field, with an anticipated build
time of approximately 10 months. He stated that the EDA will oversee reporting to Go
Virginia/DHCD on project progress, funding, and workforce development outcomes. Mr.
Morello reported that additional MOAs are expected between the EDA and educational partners,
as well as with in-kind match partners, including the Airport and the City of Hampton. He
reminded the Commission that the in-kind contributions consist mainly of labor and services
rather than tax dollars and are intended to satisfy grant matching requirements. Mr. Morello
reported that regular coordination meetings have been scheduled to support implementation of
the project and that the first quarterly report has already been submitted. He stated that work has
begun to establish the project's governance structure through a steering committee and
supporting subcommittees to assist with overall project management, workforce development,
academic partnerships, and technical program implementation. He stated that he will continue to
provide updates to the Commission as the project progresses.
eVTOL Integration Pilot Program (eIPP). Mr. Morello reported that the Airport continues to
maintain strong and positive working relationships with both the DOAV and FAA representatives
connected with the nation’s eIPP initiative. He stated that both agencies remain interested in
ensuring the Airport is well-positioned to participate in future aviation operations and initiatives
under the multi-state program led by PennDOT.
Committee Reports:
Finance & Audit Committee. Commissioner Joseph reported that Airport staff completed the
fiscal year with a deficit that was lower than budgeted despite disappointing airline-related
revenues that were beyond the Airport's control. He stated that Mr. Morello and the Airport staff
should be commended for managing expenses effectively, maintaining the Airport within budget,
and fulfilling the Airport's commitment regarding the City of Newport News' deficit funding.
Chair Smith added her appreciation for Airport staff’s hard work during the 2026 fiscal year. She
stated that the Airport received the final draw of the City of Newport News' funding contribution
during the last week of June, resulting in the full FY2026 allocation being received before the
close of the fiscal year, and that she looks forward to improved financial results during the
current fiscal year.
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