Hudson Valley, N.Y. – U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $313,200 in federal funding for infrastructure projects at Dutchess County Airport. The funding was allocated through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Program. The Dutchess County Airport will use the funding to begin two phase one design projects. Specifically, the airport will design the replacement of a 3,675 square foot snow removal equipment building and the replacement of a 6,725 square foot aircraft rescue and firefighting building to assist the airport in meeting safety requirements of 14 CFR Part 139 and protect ARFF equipment from adverse weather conditions.
“Keeping our airports in top-notch shape – regardless of rain or shine – is crucial to attracting business and tourism to the Hudson Valley,” said Senator Schumer. “These federal funds will allow the Dutchess County Airport to make critical infrastructure upgrades and prepare for winter weather conditions, enabling safer, more efficient service for the passengers and pilots who fly in and out of the area every day.”
“Investing in our airport infrastructure enables safer, more efficient service for the businesses and travelers who utilize it every day,” said Senator Gillibrand. “These funds through the Department of Transportation are a major investment for Dutchess County Airport to renovate and upgrade their facilities. I will continue to push for resources that enhance efficiency and public safety at our airports.”
“We appreciate the support from Senators Gillibrand and Schumer for helping us to secure over $300,000 for the design of a new Aircraft Rescue & Fire Fighting (ARFF) and Snow Removal Equipment (SRE) building at the Dutchess County Airport,” said Dutchess County Executive Marcus J. Molinaro. “This critical funding will enable us to continue with our efforts to improve and enhance operations at the Dutchess County Airport and ensure maximum safety for airport personnel. The creation of these updated facilities will provide airport personnel with the critical resources they need to do their job more efficiently and effectively, including direct access to water and adequate storage space for equipment.”
This funding is awarded through the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) and is administered by DOT’s Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The Airport Improvement Program provides grants to public agencies for the planning and development of public-use airports that are included in the National Plan of Integrated Airport Systems (NPIAS). Funds obligated for the AIP are drawn from the Airport and Airway Trust Fund, which is supported by user fees, fuel taxes, and other similar revenue sources.