US Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley have announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is awarding $17.3 million to the state under the Airport Improvement Program (AIP).
The AIP grant program funds airport infrastructure projects such as improvements to runways, taxiways, passenger boarding bridges,, airport signage, airport lighting and airport markings to strengthen the nation's aviation infrastructure.
By far the largest recipient of AIP funding is the Portland International Airport, which will receive over $7.7 million. The Bend Municipal Airport will receive $3.75 million and the Roseburg Regional Airport will get over $2.1 million.
The Grants Pass Airport is the only airfield in Josephine and Jackson counties to receive AIP funding. The airport near Merlin will get $274,180 for unspecified infrastructure improvements.
Wyden said Oregon airports play a key role in emergency response along with their everyday reliability for medical supplies, passenger travel and moving small business products. He said he's gratified that these airports have secured federal funding that will enable them to achieve these goals more safely and effectively.
Merkley said Oregon's airports connect communities across the state to the rest of the world while supporting local businesses, transporting goods, connecting travelers, and providing essential lifelines during natural disasters. He said the federal funding will modernize infrastructure at airports across the state.
