U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $7,048,074 in federal funding for the Canandaigua Airport to finish a long-term infrastructure project to lengthen their runway for aircraft use. The funding is allocated through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Airport Improvement Program.
“Completing this infrastructure project is a shot in the arm for Canandaigua Airport, area residents and the local economy,” said Senator Schumer. “With this DOT investment, Canandaigua’s longer runway can better connect local residents to destinations around the country and benefit the local business that have plans to increase utilization of the airport once construction is complete.”
“This is a great investment for Canandaigua Airport,” Senator Gillibrand said. “Completing this project to expand the airport will help open the beauty of the Finger Lakes to more travelers and businesses to strengthen our local economy for years to come.”
“This is exciting news for the economic future of Ontario County,” Ontario County Office of Economic Development Director Michael Manikowski said. “We are very appreciative of the work of Senator Charles Schumer and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand in helping us secure this grant from the FAA. This will enhance the infrastructure needed to support economic development in Ontario County.”
The federal funding will specifically be used to complete an ongoing infrastructure project that will increase the existing length of the runway from 3,200 feet to 5,500 feet. This will allow the airport to accommodate many business jets and larger planes traveling to international destinations. Extending the runways is anticipated to increase the $12 million in annual economic activity that the airport currently generates.