SCHUMER, GILLIBRAND ANNOUNCE MORE THAN $194K IN FEDERAL FUNDS FOR COLUMBIA COUNTY AIRPORT
Fed. Dept. of Transportation Will Fund Safety Improvements and New Visual Guidance System
U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $194,886 in federal funding for the Columbia County Airport. The funding was allocated through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). This funding will allow the airport to fund improvements to the runway safety area in order to meet Federal Aviation Administration design standards. These funds will also allow the airport to install new visual guidance systems, including a precision approach path indicator and runway end identifier lights. This equipment will help ensure safe approaches in low visibility and poor weather conditions.
“This grant will provide funding for several crucial safety and infrastructure upgrades at the Columbia County Airport,” saidSenator Schumer. “As an essential hub for the region, it is critical that it operates safely and efficiently in all types of weather. I’m committed to securing the resources our airports need to stay in tip-top shape and continue serving the passengers and pilots who fly in and out of the Capital Region every day of the year.”
“Investing in our airport’s infrastructure enables safer, more efficient service for the businesses and travelers who utilize it every day,” saidSenator Gillibrand. “This funding through the Department of Transportation is a major investment for the Columbia County Airport to make key renovations runways and installing a new visual guidance system. I will continue to push for resources that enhance efficiency and public safety at our airports.”
This funding is awarded through the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) and is administered by DOT’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The Airport Improvement Program provides grants to public agencies for the planning and development of public-use airports that are included in the National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems (NPIAS). Funds obligated for the AIP are drawn from the Airport and Airway Trust fund, which is supported by user fees, fuel taxes, and other similar revenue sources.
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