New Hampshire Commission Recommends Ending Pease Development Authority and Redistributing Functions

Gov. Kelly Ayotte's Commission on Government Efficiency (COGE) recommends dissolving the Pease Development Authority (PDA) and transitioning its responsibilities to state agencies, citing that 80% of PDA-controlled property is under long-term leases.

Established in 1991 to oversee the redevelopment of the former Pease Air Force Base, the PDA manages the Pease International Tradeport, two airports, and other facilities. The COGE report suggests transferring oversight of ports, harbors, and airports to the Department of Transportation and creating an airport director position.

The authority, which operates independently without state funding, currently has a net operating income of $479,000 over budget. Critics argue that the dissolution may lead to a loss of local oversight and representation in managing the Tradeport, while supporters highlight the potential for property development and increased housing near employment centers.