The Pickens County Airport held a ribbon-cutting ceremony on July 19, 2024 for the completion of the highly anticipated North Ramp Expansion, which has increased the airport’s ramp capacity by 60 percent. This expansion not only enhances the airport’s infrastructure but also improves access and security for the Prisma medical helicopter and provides more aircraft hangars. The South Carolina Forestry Commission is among those newly stationed there.

This project was made possible in part by the largest South Carolina Aeronautics Commission grant in history, amounting to $2.5 million.

The ceremony also celebrated the 2021 addition of an aviation-themed playground with play components for children of all abilities, including a Brava Universal Swing that children can operate with their arms, legs, or core. More recent additions include equipment, landscaping, signage, and a mural at The Scoop at the Airport.

Airport Administrator Carlos Salinas, County Council Vice Chairman Roy Costner, South Carolina Aeronautics Commission Executive Director Gary W. Siegfried, and South Carolina Aeronautics Commission District 3 Representative Skeets Cooper all gave remarks during the ceremony.

To celebrate the completion of the North Ramp Expansion, the first 100 visitors to The Scoop at the Airport that day received free ice cream.