Local Airports Receive Grants in Statewide Improvement Program

Four airports in the Mid-Hudson Valley will receive grants from a $10 million pot for airport capital project improvements across New York State. 

This funding, from Gov. Andrew Cuomo's Aviation Capital Grant Program, will support safety, infrastructure, and economic development projects across the state.

“Our airports are the gateways to New York and serve as key drivers of job creation and economic growth for communities across the state,”  Cuomo said in a press release. “These improvements will help make our airports safer and more accessible to millions of travelers and ensure they remain viable transportation hubs and economic engines for years to come.”

New York State Department of Transportation Matthew J. Driscoll said, “I applaud Governor Cuomo for recognizing airport modernization as a top economic development priority. This investment will go a long way towards enhancing airport infrastructure and safety and will create a better experience for airport users." New York State awarded $10 million to 20 applicants through a competitive solicitation process. This investment will upgrade existing airport infrastructure, construct additional hangar space and help accommodate future passenger demands. Additionally, it will address airport needs beyond the resources available through the Federal Aviation Administration and local funds. An additional $8.7 million in private and local funding is being leveraged through this state initiative. 

Mid-Hudson:

· Dutchess County Airport, Dutchess County - $889,650 for Airport Terminal Building Renovations 

· Orange County Airport, Orange County - $882,000 for a Corporate Storage Hangar 

· Warwick Municipal Airport, Orange County - $23,400 for Taxiway Edge Repair and Resurfacing 

· Sky Acres Airport, Dutchess County - $139,875 for Installation of a Self-Service Jet-A Fueling Station

This funding is in addition to a new $200 million Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalization competition included in the 2016-17 budget agreement. The initiative will solicit proposals to promote, revitalize and accelerate investments in Upstate commercial passenger and cargo service airports. The State will award capital funding for no less than five projects with a maximum project award not to exceed $40 million. This initiative builds upon the success of Governor Cuomo’s Master Plan Design Competition for LaGuardia and John F. Kennedy Airports, as well as the transformative efforts already underway Downstate.