Ithaca, N.Y. – U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $717,300 in federal funding for the Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport. The funding allocated through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will be used to acquire a new high speed multi-tasking snow removal vehicle to keep the airport serviceable during snow periods and aid in the efficiency and safety of operations.
“Making sure our airports are clear for takeoff all-year-round is essential for the safety of air travelers and the smooth functioning the local economy,” said Senator Schumer. “This much-needed funding will allow the Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport to purchase equipment to clear runways and keep pilots and travelers safe during the winter months. Ensuring our Upstate airports, which are economic engines, have top-notch resources will always be a priority of mine.”
“This funding will help support safety operations at Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport,” said Senator Gillibrand. “Tompkins Airport is a vital economic anchor that businesses and travelers rely on, and this new equipment would help decrease snow delays during the winter season. I will always fight in the Senate to make sure that our airports receive the funding needed to enhance efficiency and public safety.”
This funding for Ithaca Tompkins Airport in New York is part of the Airport Improvement Program and is administered by 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.