James Stephens knew he had big shoes to fill when he became director of Greenville Downtown Airport (GMU) earlier this month after the retirement of Joe Frasher, who led the airport for nearly 40 years.
As one of the primary gateways to downtown Greenville for visiting business travelers, GMU has an important role to play in the area’s economic vitality, Stephens says.
“Airports are often viewed as the front doors of their communities,” he says. “We put out a great example of what Greenville is.”
As the former executive director of the S.C. Aeronautics Commission, Stephens knows well the role aviation has played in the state’s economic success, and he aims to build on the initiatives the airport has begun in recent years.
He wants to build on special projects like the Pleasantburg Corridor that will enhance the curb appeal of GMU’s surroundings on the doorstep of downtown.
“We’re not a separate entity ourselves — we’re part of this community,” he says.
By leading and maintaining a cohesive team at the airport, Stephens says his priority will be expanding GMU’s momentum in ensuring Greenville’s ongoing success.
For more information about Greenville Downtown Airport, visit greenvilledowntownairport.com.
Greenville Downtown Airport fast facts:
- GMU is often described as the state’s busiest general aviation airport with a nearly $70 million annual economic impact.
- GMU is home to 7 flight schools, the Military History Center Museum, Takeoff Minigolf and Runway Park.
