Columbia Regional Airport seeks 600 more parking spaces to meet rising demand

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

Customer demand at the Columbia Regional Airport is expected to surge as American Airlines expands its flight schedule, United Airlines returns, and Allegiant Airlines adds new service.

The increasing number of passengers flying in and out of COU has sparked the need for additional parking. To address the issue, the city is considering amending its fiscal 2026 budget to expand the airport's south parking lot.

The proposal seeks $400,000 from the transportation sales tax to add about 600 gravel parking spaces.

Airport staff says increased parking is critical for accommodating growing ridership.

"We want people to know that we will be ready for all of the new flights beginning this year," Airport Manager Mike Parks wrote in an email.

According to city documents, expansion of the parking lot south of the terminal would be an interim but necessary solution. It is expected be used as an overflow area during the new wave of flight expansions and would remain in use while the city pursues longer‑term, paved parking improvements in the future.

The project would include erosion control measures, grading, base rock installation, compacted stone surfaces and upgraded entrances and exits.

If approved, the budget amendment would allow construction to begin during fiscal 2026.

The Columbia City Council is set to vote on whether to amend the budget for airport parking expansion at its 7 p.m. meeting Monday.