U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $2,479,500 in federal funding for the Syracuse Hancock International Airport in Onondaga County. The funding was allocated through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Specifically, the funding was allocated through two separate grants. The first grant of $1,980,000 will provide for the replacement of two outdated passenger boarding bridges in the airport terminal; this will enable the airport to safely and efficiently move passengers throughout the airport. The second grant of $499,500 will enable the airport to design its reconfiguration of exit taxiways. This will mitigate the risk of runway incursions and improve passenger safety.
“Keeping our airport terminals and taxiways in top-notch shape is crucial for traveler safety and for attracting business and tourism to the region,” said Senator Schumer. “With this funding, the Syracuse Hancock International Airport will be able to make the critical infrastructure upgrades to increase safety and efficiency for the passengers and pilots that fly in and out of Onondaga County every day.”
“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 “This funding through the Department of Transportation is a major investment for Central New York to replace outdated boarding bridges and renovate taxiways. I will continue to push for resources that enhance efficiency and public safety that New Yorkers can rely on.”
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.