U.S. Senate Minority Leader Charles E. Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $409,960 in federal funding for the Watertown International Airport in Jefferson County. The funding was allocated through the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) and the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Airport Improvement Program (AIP). Specifically, the funding will be used to purchase a new snow plow, as well as a new truck to remove snow.
“Keeping our airports in top-notch shape is crucial to safe travel for area residents and in attracting business and tourism to Watertown and the North Country,” said Senator Schumer. “These federal funds will allow the Watertown International Airport to purchase new snow removal equipment, which will help keep runways clear and flights on-time throughout all four seasons.”
“With this federal funding, Watertown International Airport will be able to continue providing a high-quality and safe travel experience for people living in and traveling to Watertown and the North Country,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This investment will help the airport continue to operate even through the North Country winters, and I will continue to fight for the resources that our airports across New York need.”
This funding is awarded through the AIP and is administered by the FAA. The AIP 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.