Pease Airport In Portsmouth To Get $13.5 Million For New Runway

PORTSMOUTH, NH — Pease International Airport in Portsmouth is set to receive more than $13.5 million for runway reconstruction. New Hampshire's federal delegation announced the funding Tuesday, citing airport efficiency, economic vitality and improved support of the Pease Air National Guard as reasons for the funding. The project has been part of the airport's longterm plans for the past several years, and a total of $13,506,533 in federal funds have been dedicated to it, according to the announcement.

"Portsmouth International Airport at Pease is an important transportation hub for the Seacoast region, with its flight school, cargo services, and commercial flights," said Congresswoman Annie Kuster. "This funding to reconstruct runways at Pease will help improve airport efficiency and performance, and it is an investment in our state's economic wellbeing."

According to Pease Development Authority, the airport's runway is more than two miles long and is capable of accommodating the world's largest aircraft. The runway is also designated as an alternative landing site for all NASA space shuttles.

U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen said securing federal funding for New Hampshire's infrastructure projects will continue to be a top priority in Congress.

"As a joint civil and military use airport, Portsmouth International serves as an important transportation hub for the New Hampshire Seacoast area and is vital to the mission at Pease Air National Guard Base," said Shaheen. "This is significant funding for New Hampshire that will be put to good use by improving safety conditions at the airport, boosting the operations of military and passenger aircraft and spurring economic growth in our state by easing travel to and from the Seacoast region."

U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan said, "Not only will this grant boost economic growth in the region and improve the experience of the civilians who use the airport, but it is also vital for supporting operations at Pease Air National Guard Base."

"Improving service, safety, and efficiency is vital to the health of an airport, and today’s funding announcement is good news for Portsmouth International, which supports Seacoast communities and the National Guard," said Congressman Chris Pappas. "I'm proud to work alongside Senator Jeanne Shaheen, Senator Maggie Hassan, and Congresswoman Annie Kuster in the fight to secure federal funding for critical investments that will move New Hampshire forward."