Today, U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten E. Gillibrand announced that Cattaraugus County-Olean Airport is set to receive $475,000 in U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) funds for airport facility upgrades. Specifically, the grant will allow Cattaraugus County-Olean Airport to install weather reporting equipment, airfield guidance signs, and taxiway lighting. Schumer and Gillibrand applaud DOT for their work to increase safety at all airports.
“This is great news for the passengers and pilots that fly in and out of Cattaraugus County-Olean Airport every day,” said Schumer. “With this funding, the airport can make renovations that will ensure passenger safety and the smooth operation of the facility. I will continue to fight for funds like these that promote safety at all New York airports.”
“This is an important investment for Cattaraugus County-Olean Airport,” Senator Gillibrand said. “These federal dollars will help upgrade the airport, and provide better, safer service for New Yorkers.”
The Cattaraugus County-Olean Airport will use these funds to install weather reporting equipment, airfield guidance signs, and install taxiway lighting. The installation of an automatic weather observing system (AWOS) will enhance the safety and efficiency of aircraft operations at the airport by providing accurate, current, and site-specific weather information. The taxiway lighting system will improve aircraft safety during night and low visibility operations, and the airfield guidance signs will enhance aircraft visual guidance and safety.
The funding for Cattaraugus County-Olean 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).