Governor Andrew M. Cuomo has announced that $20 million in\nnew State funding is available for airports across New York State to support\nsafety improvements, modernize operations and increase general and\nbusiness-related aviation capacity. The Airport Capital Grant Program, which is\n100 percent State-funded, is part of the State’s $275 billion infrastructure\nprogram, the largest building program of its kind in the nation. The\nannouncement also comes on the heels of the recent completion of the\nmodernization and expansion of the Ithaca Tompkins International Airport,\nannounced by Governor Cuomo in December.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“There is no second chance to make a first impression,\nand airports often serve as the gateway welcoming visitors to communities\nacross New York,” Governor Cuomo said. “Investing in the\nmodernization of our airports sends a strong message across the world that the\nEmpire State is a premier destination for travelers and a great place to do\nbusiness.”<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This funding available through the Airport Capital Grant\nProgram is in addition to and complements the $200 million Governor Cuomo made\navailable through the Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalization\ncompetition. Through that competition, transformational projects have been\ncompleted that enhance the customer experience; expand terminal facilities; and\nprovide vital transportation hubs connecting visitors from around the world,\nincluding the Plattsburgh International Airport; Syracuse Hancock International\nAirport; Elmira Corning Regional Airport; and the Greater Rochester\nInternational Airport. Projects are also nearing completion at the Ithaca\nTompkins International Airport and the Albany International Airport. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner\nMarie Therese Dominguez said, “For decades our upstate infrastructure and\ncommunities were left to decay. Under Governor Cuomo’s leadership, New York is\nreestablishing upstate as a gateway to global commerce and tourism. These grants\nwill allow communities across our state further enhance their economic\ncompetitiveness.” <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Aviation Capital Grant Program is open to public-use\nairports listed in the 2018 State Airport System Plan. Eligible project\nactivities include safety projects, preservation projects, new construction,\nand other projects that enhance business development and economic\ncompetitiveness. Projects will be selected through a competitive solicitation\nprocess and rated based on established criteria including economic benefits for\nsurrounding communities and businesses; adherence to regional economic\ndevelopment plans; and improved operational efficiency. Previous grant awards\nhave funded new airport hangars, airport terminal building renovations, taxiway\nresurfacing, security fencing, and fuel farm modernizations that improve\nsecurity and spill prevention. <\/p>\n\n\n\n