Governor Andrew M. Cuomo recently announced the availability of $20 million in new state funding to support safety improvements, modernize operations, and enhance the economic competitiveness of New York’s airports. This funding, provided under the Governor’s Airport Capital Grant Program, was included in the new $21.1 billion five-year State Transportation Plan. The Airport Capital Grant Program provides support for projects statewide that enhance safety; modernize operations; and increase general and business-related aviation capacity.
“With this funding, New York will continue to revitalize and modernize our airports, which are both gateways into our communities and vital parts of our transportation infrastructure,” Governor Cuomo said. “Investments in our transportation infrastructure are investments in our future growth and prosperity, and are one more reason why New York is going Ever Upward.”
The Aviation Capital Grant Program is open to public-use airports which are listed in the current State Airport System Plan. Projects will be selected through a competitive solicitation process and rated based on established criteria that include economic benefits for surrounding communities and businesses, adherence to regional economic development plans, and improved operational efficiency. Eligible project activities include safety markings and signage; obstruction removal; navigational aids; construction and preservation of runways, taxiways, and facilities; construction of hangars and other business development opportunities; and other projects that enhance economic competitiveness. No less than $10 million of the total amount available will be made available to support Upstate airport improvements.
New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Matthew J. Driscoll said, “I applaud Governor Cuomo for recognizing the importance of investing in projects that will improve airport infrastructure and help accommodate future passenger demands. These investments will benefit communities and businesses that rely on airports across the State to remain economically competitive.”
Chairman of the Senate Transportation Committee Senator Joseph Robach said, “As Chairman of the Senate Transportation Committee, I would like to thank Governor Cuomo and the Department of Transportation for allocating $20 million in state funding to support safety improvements and the modernization of operations for airports across New York State. These funds will improve the economic competitiveness of state airports and allow for New York residents and visitors to our great state the ability to utilize airports that are safe and run efficiently. Improving our state’s airports is a next step in ensuring a 21st Century transportation infrastructure for New York.”
Co-Chair of the Legislative Aviation Caucus Senator Phil Boyle said, “As the Chair of the Senate’s Legislative Aviation Caucus, and the Commerce, Economic Development, and Small Business Committee, I believe that airport modernization should be a key economic development priority and I’m thrilled about this State funding. These infrastructure investment projects will have long-lasting and positive impacts on our local and regional airports and will improve safety, stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and give residents throughout the State more accessible options for travel.”
Co-Chair of the Legislative Aviation Caucus Assemblymember Donna Lupardo said, “The Airport Capital Grant Program recognizes the importance of investing in smaller airport improvement projects. As regional economic drivers, airports need regular upgrades to help modernize operations, enhance safety, and improve the overall flying experience. As Co-Chair of the Legislative Aviation Caucus, I’d like to thank the Governor for his commitment to the state’s airports and look forward to building on this commitment in the years to come.”
The New York State Department of Transportation will be accepting applications for this funding opportunity through May 2, 2017. Program guidance and applications may be found at: https://www.dot.ny.gov/aviationgrants .
