Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $511,829 in federal funding for the Sky Acres Airport in Dutchess County. The funding was allocated through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and will be used to construct an equipment facility, to shelter snow removal equipment from inclement weather in order to maintain the equipment’s durability and longevity.
“Making sure our runways are clear for takeoff, especially during winter weather, is essential for the safety of our New York travelers,” said Senator Schumer. “Removing snow from airport runways safely and efficiently so flights can continue to operate on time is important for the travelers and pilots that fly in and out of Sky Acres every day. These federal funds will make this infrastructure upgrade possible, and will allow the airport to construct a facility to house this vital snow removal equipment. Ensuring our airports have top-notch resources will always be a priority of mine.”
“During winter months, the Sky Acres Airport experiences heavy snowfall and adverse wintry conditions,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This grant will lessen the impact of winter weather on the equipment and on airport operations. With better protected equipment, the airports pavement and taxiways can be cleared faster and more passengers can travel through the airport without snow delays.”
“Sky Acres has been a valued member of the greater Millbrook community. I’m delighted they have received a grant to upgrade their facilities,” said Laura M. Hurley, Mayor, Village of Millbrook. Small, regional airports are unique assets and we are fortunate that they will continue to operate locally.”
“Sky Acres Airport is thankful for the assistance and support of Senator Kirsten Gillibrand, Senator Charles Schumer and all others who aided us in obtaining our most recent Federal Aviation Administration Grant,” said Steven Styles, President, Sky Acres Enterprises, Inc. “We have worked diligently for almost a decade to secure funding for this snow equipment building. Receiving this grant will allow construction of the building, which in turn will protect our equipment from constant exposure to the elements thus prolonging its life. These grants enhance airport facilities while also employing people from the Dutchess County community. Sky Acres inclusion in future Federal Aviation Administration Grants is a positive step toward keeping the local economy growing.”
This funding is awarded through the Airport Improvement Program 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.