KTRV Fox 12 Idaho Initiates PR Blitz to Attract F-35 Squadrons

Idaho Initiates PR Blitz to Attract F-35 Squadrons

Boise, Idaho -- Idaho is initiating a public relations blitz to help bring the F-35 fighter jets to the Treasure Valley.

State leaders and local officials want the Air Force's new fighter and they're willing to spend money to show their support for bringing the F-35 to Gowen Field and Mountain Home, and they're creating a lot of noise in the process.

At a press conference Thursday morning, Gov. C.L. "Butch " Otter said, "Idaho is ready and welcomes the F-35."

There are billboards up around both Mountain Home and Boise calling for bringing the new squadrons here to the Gem State, and they want you on board to help convince the Air Force. In fact the Idaho Department of Commerce has budgeted about $20,000 to help promote the effort.

There's a website up and you can even become a fan of the project on social networking site Facebook. From the governor to members of Idaho's Congressional Delegation, they've all made it known they want the new generation of warplanes here.

"I believe we have an excellent opportunity for success in convincing the Air Force that this is the place, where the F-35 should come," said Sen. Mike Crapo.

So why all the press conferences and promotional elements? Sen. Jim Risch wants to know it  will be well received.

"They're always interested in how welcome are we in a particular area. That is the message that we will take when we go back to Washington, D.C.," said Risch.

There has been a mixed reaction from people who live in close proximity to the airport as to the noise and the government spending money to convince them it's a good thing.

Ron Ferguson, who lives near the Boise Airport said, "When I moved here, I knew where the airport was. When I hear that sound, I feel good."

"I don't think they have spent quite enough money to actually make me believe them that it's not enough noise. I think what they should do is, first of all, live here, right next to the airport, and see how comfortable they are with the noise, said Jose Leal, Ferguson's neighbor.

Leal does support the project but isn't looking forward to the increased noise. In fact, according to an article in the Air Force Times it's estimated the new jets are twice as loud as the F-15.