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Federal officials join the airport location debate

Federal officials joined in the debate today over where San Diego should locate a new airport. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

Federal officials joined in the debate today over where San Diego should locate a new airport. KPBS reporter Alison St John has more.

Congressman John Mica, chair of the Federal Department of Transportation's Aviation subcommittee, led a roundtable to consider options for San Diego's future airport. Mica told San Diego Congressman Bob Filner and civic and military leaders they will have to reach consensus before federal agencies will weigh in.

Mica: "I can't influence the decisions here other than ask you all to cooperate and try to reach some decision. I have 428 other airports to be concerned about and if this ones in turmoil, about making a decision I will smile at Mr Filner and wish you well."

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Filner favors investing in a maglev train to an airport in Imperial County. The San Diego Airport Authority is considering nine options, including joint use of a military base sometime in the future. Alison St John, KPBS News.