A study determining if micro-jet service would be a good fit for Bismarck will continue.

The study began in 2002 with a grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation. Last fall, the DOT amended the grant.

A Grand Forks consultant, EASE LLC, finished a feasibility study this spring that looked at utilizing micro-jets, a new aviation technology, for non-scheduled air services. EASE LLC determined the service is a possibility for Grand Forks, and with the city commission's Tuesday night approval, will now develop a business plan and model.

Beginning in October, EASE LLC will begin establishing the plan. If it is a success, implementation would be the next step, pending the commission's approval.

The U.S. DOT and EASE LLC have paid for all the costs of the study so far. The initial grant awarded $45,000 to the city, and another $121,000 was allowed in the amendment. U.S. DOT will pay $138,750 of the cost of developing the business plan, with EASE LLC paying another $46,250. If the city continues with implementation, more than $1.2 million in federal dollars is available through the grant.

City Administrator Bill Wocken said that NASA is interested in the results of this study. Commissioner Bryce Hill, who handles the airport portfolio, said he believes transportation is heading to micro-jet technology and would fit Bismarck well.

"Where you want to go, at a reasonable cost," he said of the possibility.

(Reach reporter Angie Buckley at 250-8255 or angiebuckley@ndonline.com)