LIVINGSTON - A master plan and site selection study for a proposed airport in Livingston Parish could be completed by June, just in time for the first meeting of the newly created parish Airport Board.

Parish officials have been discussing the possibility of building a general aviation airport for the better part of a decade. In 2012, a study determined one would be highly feasible.

Parish President Layton Ricks says an airport could enhance economic development by allowing business owners to fly in and look at property for future development, without having to stop first in Baton Rouge, Gonzales or Hammond.

Ricks says an airstrip also would provide critical access for medical personnel and relief supplies during emergencies such as floods, hurricanes or tornadoes.