RENO -- Reno-Stead Airport will be getting a new administrative building to replace an aging cinder-block structure that officials say is too small in general and inadequate during times of emergency.  the Reno-Tahoe Airport Authority on Wednesday approved up to $6 million for the upgrade.

Brian Kulpin, Vice president of marketing and public affairs at the airport authority, which owns and operates Reno-Tahoe International Airport and Reno Stead Airport, would like to better serve the local business community in Stead, “We’re not looking for a grand place but right now it certainly does not reflect the size and scope of the region” he said.

He adds that the Stead Airport is a federally designated "reliever" airport for Reno-Tahoe International, meaning it is meant to help relieve congestion and act as an alternative airport in emergencies. “In 1997’s flood, they considered sending the commercial flights to Stead, but the equipment wasn’t there to handle it. So they didn’t,” he said. “Today, there is an instrument landing system, new lighting and a much better airfield. Emergency supply flights and corporate aircraft could certainly utilize Stead today with no problem,” Kulpin said.

The new building will also include an emergency operations center.   Kulpin said, “This would have been very useful during last year’s air races crash.”

There is no timeline yet for when construction will begin, as the airport authority board needs to first attain plans for the new structure.