Consists Of Four "Zones" Where Pilots Can Learn To Fly Or Hone Their Skills

A major milestone in one of Central Colorado UAS projects was achieved this week when the Town of Buena Vista Trustees unanimously approved the group's concept of a drone flying park to be located on Town property.

"We are delighted that the Town approved our concept to create this park which is unique in the industry.," said Club President Taylor Albrecht.

"Both Chaffee County and the Town have been very supportive of our efforts to highlight the positive benefits of unmanned aerial systems technology to the community. This is another step in the development of an environment where drone companies and pilots are welcome and have the resources to learn how to fly safely and legally."

The flying park is to be located in the southeast quadrant of Town property that is host to the Collegiate Peaks Stampede Rodeo grounds near the intersection of Gregg Drive and Rodeo Drive. It will consist of four "zones" where pilots can learn to fly or hone their flying skills.

"We wanted to create a place valuable to pilots of all skills and ability. The basic training zone has been designed after one used by an area university GIS program to teach their students the basics of flight. Inspiration for the qualification zone was from a public safety organization that uses a similar configuration to qualify first-responders and other public safety pilots. The obstacle zone is intended to help all pilots navigate through different places, which will help fire and police organization pilots enhance skills. We also hope to have sanctioned racing events in the racing zone," Albrecht said.

"We are impressed with the work and research done over the last year by the Central Colorado UAS to create this new and unique park," commented Recreation Director Earl Richmond. "They have worked well with our team and the Public Works Department to address the public's concerns and to find the best location for this public facility. The end result will be a new park where drone pilots can have fun and learn to fly safely."

Development of the park will begin immediately, with the basic flying and qualification courses on schedule to be completed this fall. The remaining zones should be ready for use in the summer of 2021.

Wendell Pryor, Director of Chaffee County Economic Development Corporation, said "the Club's efforts with the drone flying park, educational initiatives with area schools and other projects will create an attractive ecosystem for companies that need a place to conduct research and development and a workforce well trained in the technology. We are excited about their efforts."

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