NYS: $49 million in state funding for airports

Funding, through Aviation Capital Grant program, supports modernization, operational improvements, resiliency, safety enhancements

Gov. Kathy Hochul announced 36 public-use airports across New York will receive approximately $49 million for strategic infrastructure enhancements that, her team said, “will enhance safety, facilitate innovation, leverage existing resources, advance business development, and promote sustainability and resiliency.”

 “A strong investment in our airports is a meaningful investment in our communities and the future of the Empire State,” Hochul said. “Airports are gateways to communities large and small across New York state, and these grants will serve as a launchpad to springboard many of these facilities into the 21st century and beyond.”

A press release stated, “Administered by the New York State Department of Transportation, projects funded through the Aviation Capital Grant program include the construction and rehabilitation of new and existing hangars, electrification and carbon reduction programs, new and upgraded snow removal equipment, and updated security systems. These investments will serve to make the surrounding communities more economically competitive with neighboring states.”

New York State Department of Transportation Commissioner Marie Therese Dominguez said, “Gov. Hochul has once again shown that she understands that critical investments in transportation will cement New York’s place as a leader in global commerce and tourism. These targeted investments will support projects that will have a positive, long-lasting impact on the local communities while improving the resiliency of our transportation infrastructure.”

State Sen. Tim Kennedy said, “This funding builds upon the nearly $1 billion nationwide investment made by our federal partners in government earlier this year, and will not only improve existing airport infrastructure, but the overall experience and accessibility of passengers who often utilize these hubs across New York. Through targeted investments like these, we're actively helping to meet the increased demand for air travel, creating opportunities within our workforce, and boosting our local economies.”

Locally, funding from the Aviation Capital Grant program was awarded to the following projects:

Western New York – $6.3 million

√ Buffalo Niagara International Airport, Erie County – $2.2 million toward the purchase and installation of two replacement passenger boarding bridges (PBBs) with new pre-conditioned air (PCA) units and ground power units (GPUs) for gates 8 and 22 at the BUF passenger terminal.

√ Niagara Falls International Airport, Niagara County – $1.3 million toward the procurement of 10 pieces of equipment to enhance the safety and efficiency of snow removal operations and wildlife management.

The press release added, “Funding was awarded to projects through a competitive solicitation process and rated based on established criteria including economic benefits for surrounding communities and businesses; adherence to regional economic development plans; safety improvements; improved operational efficiency; and energy efficiency and emissions reduction.

“The New York State Department of Transportation is committed to working with local project sponsors to expedite the delivery of these improvements.”