NORFOLK, Neb. -- The Norfolk Regional Airport is ramping up its efforts to attract more businesses to the area.

Bill Jepsen, marketing coordinator at the airport, believes they can help Norfolk increase business.

“We’re trying to bring more businesses into Norfolk,” he said. “Time is money, they (business owners) don’t want to go someplace and drive a couple hours."

Before the COVID-19 pandemic, Enterprise Rent-A-Car had a presence in Norfolk, but like many small businesses, it closed due to travel restrictions in 2020.

Jepsen, who’s been involved with airport operations for over a decade, believes that Norfolk is struggling to offer dependable rental car services to visitors arriving by air.

“We’re looking at getting some rental car service back into Norfolk,” he said. “The airport is a great place to base it.”

Jepsen believes that the airport is an important asset for the community. He coordinates with many businesses who rely on it for shipping and receiving goods. Now, he’s trying to expand that reach, working with the city of Norfolk.

“The city, the city council is trying to get more high-tech businesses to come into town,” he said. “This (flying in) is a good way for them to get in quickly and see what we all have available.”

He added that even for those not flying in or out, the airport plays an important role in northeast Nebraskan’s daily lives.

“Anytime you get a next day package, it's coming in here on an airplane,” he said. “Many of the medications you get are flown in.”

Jepsen said he’s committed to Norfolk, and believes in its potential to reach new heights in commerce.

“We’ve got great infrastructure here and great people,” he said. “You cannot beat Midwest work ethic, and the Norfolk area is just full of that.”