Today, U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand announced that Griffiss International Airport is set to receive a $449,100 U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) grant for airport facility upgrades. Specifically, this funding will allow Griffiss to install edge lighting on taxiway K and enhance airport safety by providing adequate lighting. Schumer and Gillibrand applaud DOT for their work to increase safety at all airports.
“I am pleased to add this federal investment to the list of ‘arrivals’ at Griffiss International Airport,” said Senator Schumer. “We should always strive to achieve the highest standards of airline safety, and this funding will support that goal by improving airport lighting on the taxiway.”
“This is an important investment for Griffiss International Airport,” Senator Gillibrand said. “These federal resources for new lighting will help improve safety for passengers, keep more flights on the move in Oneida County, and help strengthen the local economy.”
The funding for Griffiss International Airport is part of the Airport Improvement Program, administered by DOT’s Federal Aviation Administration. 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).
The Airport Improvement Program (AIP) was established by the Airport and Airway Improvement Act of 1982. Since then, the AIP has been amended several times, most recently with the passage of the FAA Modernization and Reform Act of 2012. 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.