Press Release

Schumer, Gillibrand Announce More Than $1.4 Million For Hudson Valley Airports

Sep 12, 2014

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $1,423,350 in federal funding from the Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) for two Hudson Valley airports. The Sullivan County International Airport will receive $64,350 to rehabilitate the main airport access road, which has reached the end of its life. The Westchester County Airport will receive $1,359,000 to create a new taxiway lighting system, design structural enhancements, and replace the airfield guidance signs.

“This is great news for the passengers and pilots who fly in and out of our Hudson Valley airports every day,” said Senator Schumer. “With this funding, the Sullivan County and Westchester County Airports will be able to make the improvements they need to ensure passenger safety and the smooth operation of their facilities. I will continue to fight for funds like these, which promote safety and growth for the Hudson Valley’s key aviation assets, so that these two airports can continue to be hubs for the regional economy that will support and grow jobs.”

“Investing in New York’s vital transportation infrastructure allows us to keep pace with the growing economy and tourism industry,” said Senator Gillibrand. “This funding for the Sullivan County International Airport and the Westchester County Airport will help provide better, safer service for travelers and business, and will help strengthen the local economy.”

“We consider our Sullivan County Airport an exceptional asset for current and future economic development,” said Scott Samuelson, Chairman of the Sullivan County Legislature. “This grant for entry road redesign is most welcome especially at this time as we anticipate much greater usage in the near future. We are grateful to Senator Schumer and Senator Gillibrand for their support in obtaining this grant funding.”

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.