U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $2,529,490 in federal funding for airports across the Rochester-Finger Lakes region. The funding was allocated through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Specifically, the Greater Rochester International Airport in Monroe County will receive $1,930,500 to design and construct an 11,700 square foot de-icing facility to provide a central deicing operations area and support the safe operation of aircraft. Genesee County Airport in Genesee County will receive $184,871 to replace deteriorating pavement on its runway in order to improve safety and efficient operation at the airport. Finally, the Penn Yan Airport in Yates County will receive $414,119 to maintain existing taxi-lanes as well as construct new taxi-lanes to provide access to new aircraft hangars and improve operation at the airport.
“These airports serve as crucial travel hubs and economic boosters for the Rochester-Finger Lakes region,” said Senator Schumer. “This new funding will ensure that these essential pieces of infrastructure continue operating at their best year-round, whether in rain or shine, snow or sleet. I’m committed to fighting for the resources our airports need to continue serving Upstate New York as safely and efficiently as possible.”
“Investing in our airport’s infrastructure enables safer, more efficient service for the businesses and travelers who utilize it every day,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This funding through the Department of Transportation is a major investment for the Rochester-Finger Lakes region to make major upgrades in airports in Monroe, Genesee and Yates. I will continue to push for resources that enhance efficiency and public safety that New Yorkers can rely on.”
“Monroe County is grateful for the support of our Federal Legislative Delegation in securing this $1.93 million dollar grant for the Greater Rochester International Airport (ROC),” said Monroe County Executive, Cheryl Dinolfo. “This grant will further our commitment to environmentally responsible operations by constructing two steel tanks and implementing a new process control system to better manage the already compliant discharge and collection of airline deicing fluids.”
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.