U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced that over $1.2 million in three separate grants would be awarded to Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport. The Senators announced $949,215 in federal funding for new security measures, including the construction of perimeter fencing; $225,000 for the acquisition of snow removal equipment; and $67,500 for the acquisition of aircraft rescue and firefighting safety equipment. The funding is allocated through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Airport Improvement Program.
“These three grants, taken together, are a significant investment in the Ithaca Tompkins Regional airport,” said Senator Schumer. “The funding will help Ithaca-Tompkins enhance their safety and security capabilities, through the construction of a perimeter fence and the purchasing of necessary safety and maintenance equipment.”
“This is an important investment for the Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport,” Senator Gillibrand said. “Improving the airport’s infrastructure and safety equipment can help provide better, safer service for travelers and businesses, and help strengthen the local economy.”
The federal funding for Ithaca Tompkins Regional Airport will specifically be used for the construction of a perimeter fencing, to bring Ithaca Tompkins in line with mandated safety codes. In addition, the FAA awards will fund the purchase of a ramp dozer plow, which will enhance the airport’s ability to clear the airfield during adverse weather conditions. The existing equipment is fourteen years old and has reached the end of its useful life. Finally, the federal support will fund the replacement of a rapid-response aircraft rescue vehicle – the current vehicle is over ten years old – to enhance the airport’s response to on-airport accidents and emergency calls. These projects will enhance the overall level of airport safety.