The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) recently awarded $5 million in grants to 41 projects through the Kansas Airport Improvement Program (KAIP), which funds the planning, construction or rehabilitation of the state’s general aviation airports.
The program, which is managed through the KDOT Division of Aviation, received 119 project applications for projects totaling more than $29 million.
Recipients must pay a portion of the project costs.
“We are proud of the collaboration between our department and airport sponsors to increase safety, enhance economic development and support the transportation needs of Kansans,” Secretary of Transportation Julie Lorenz said.
The program has helped enhance the state’s health and economic wellbeing, KDOT Director of Aviation Bob Brock said.
The aviation industry generates $20.6 billion toward the state economy and employs more than 92,000.
Air ambulance operations are located within 30 minutes of 94 percent of the state’s population.
Grants were awarded between $10,949 and $721,500. The largest grant was awarded to Independence for its south apron run-up area renovation. It also was awarded $36,335 for fuel systems. The smallest grant is for Kinsley for construct tiedowns.
Other grants include Salina, awarded $720,000 for phase two of ramp reconstruction, and Emporia, awarded $411,500 for runway sealcoat and preservation.