The Department of Transportation (DOT) has earmarked over $273 million via the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to aid airport safety initiatives in 41 states, the District of Columbia and additional territories.
“This $273 million federal investment in our nation’s airports will strengthen safety, improve travel, generate jobs, and benefit local communities,” Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao said.
American Samoa, the Federated States of Micronesia, the Marshall Islands, Palau and Puerto Rico serve as territories garnering funding assistance.
The project scopes, officials said, include purchasing aircraft rescue and firefighting equipment, constructing runways and taxiways, repairing runways and taxiways, installing aircraft lighting and signage, conducting airport master plan studies and installing airport perimeter fencing.
The funding total includes just over $242 million from the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) and $31 million in Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act grants to equal a 100 percent federal share.
“The safety of our nation’s airports is of paramount importance to the FAA,” FAA Administrator Stephen M. Dickson said. “These grants will allow these necessary projects to continue.”