CHEYENNE, Wyo. (AP) — Airlines interested in providing air service to rural Wyoming communities have until Dec. 20 to submit proposals to the state for consideration.

Wyoming Department of Transportation Director Bill Panos told the Wyoming Air Service Improvement Council on Wednesday in Gillette that a number of airlines have already downloaded the request for proposals.

Panos says the state should start negotiations with the selected airline early next year.

The council was established by the Legislature to find providers for community airports.

The chosen carrier would provide up to three daily flights to and from Denver International Airport from airports that join the agreement, which would cost the state $15 million over 10 years.

Communities that opt-in would share 40 percent of the cost.

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