Austin Studios has already completed one commercial and has begun production with Sony Pictures on a feature film, "The New Guy," since opening the studio doors Nov. 1. "We were able to hit the ground running," says Quinn.

Last summer, Austin Studios had been negotiating the lease with the city while actress Sandra Bullock had used the site for the filming of "Miss Congeniality," a film she produced.

Quinn says Austin Studios is seeking partners to share the space. The goal is to provide a complex where filmmakers can come and find all of the elements of production available to them.

"We're putting out calls to local companies and companies in LA and New York," says Quinn. And, she is in the midst of negotiating on a "couple of films" to bring to the new studio.

The multi-media complex also will serve as a vehicle for internships and apprenticeships to high school and college students interested in film industry careers. Quinn says the paid internships will enable more students to participate and ultimately become part of the skilled local workforce. Austin Studios is planning fundraisers to support paid apprenticeships that could begin as early as January 2001, according to Quinn.

Meanwhile, the city is developing a master plan to determine the best use for the remaining 689 acres at the former municipal airport, says David Matustik, the city public information manager. He says the possibilities include seeking a developer or setting up a city-run redevelopment for the mixed-use site.