The local Chris Crusta Memorial Airport has a new sign on Hwy. 14. Recently erected, it is now awaiting electrical work, so it will be lighted at night. Councilman-at-Large Francis Plaisance initiated the project.

“I invite suggestions from the public,” Plaisance said, “and the new airport sign is a result of public input.”

In this case, the suggestion came from Plaisance’s wife of 40 years, Vana, who insisted there must be a large, attractive sign on Hwy. 14, so motorists could easily locate and identify the growing Abbeville airport.

After obtaining the approval of Abbeville Mayor Mark Piazza and the full city council, Councilman Plaisance proceeded to purchase the new sign with his allotted council funds. He obtained the assistance of Clay Menard, Public Works director, who took care of the project.

“The City is expanding and moving forward in all areas,” Menard said. “The airport sign is another example of this progress, thanks to Councilman Plaisance, the Mayor, and the rest of the council.”

The company that made the sign is AAA Signs, Inc., in Lafayette.

According to Plaisance, when the current City administration took office on July 1, 2006, the Chris Crusta Memorial Airport grounds had been maintained by adequate, but minimal standards.

“It was surrounded by old fencing, and hay was being bailed on some of the airport grounds,” he said.

It was then, under the direction of Councilman Plaisance, and with the support of the Mayor and the entire city council, that a project of airport beautification was started.

“A retired individual, Roland Simon, was hired by the council to maintain the airport,” Plaisance added. “As a result, the old fencing was taken down, and the area was cleaned by city employees.”

In addition, Vermilion Parish Sheriff’s Department trustees and the Vermilion Parish Drainage Board also assisted in the clean-up project.

The council purchased new equipment for Mr. Simon to maintain the airport, and the project has continued with the approval and the cooperation of the Airport Board.

Major future projects are currently being planned, including drainage and new fencing.

“I am pleased with the new lighted airport sign,” Mrs. Plaisance commented. “It is easily seen from the highway and looks very professional.”