Press Release

Schumer, Gillibrand Announce Nearly $3 Million In Federal Funds For Upgrades At JFK Airport; Runway Projects Will Help Reduce Delays & Improve Safety

Aug 16, 2016

New York, N.Y. – U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $2,924,604 in federal funding to complete the final phase for key runway and airfield upgrades at John F. Kennedy International Airport. The funding covers the last phase of four projects currently under construction that would upgrade runways, build new taxiways and help reduce the time planes spend on the ground while also enhancing safety measures.

“As one of the most traveled through hubs in the world, it is critical that JFK Airport operates safely and efficiently,” said Senator Schumer. “This federal investment will pave the way for critical runway upgrades that enable safer service for the passengers and pilots who fly in and out of JFK Airport each day.” 

“Investing in our airport infrastructure is critical for the millions of travelers and business throughout New York who rely on it every day,” said Senator Gillibrand. “JFK is a major hub for not just New York, but the northeast and the country, and it has to meet the best standards for efficiency and safety. This latest installment of federal funds through the Department of Transportation allows JFK to complete the final upgrades to several key runways and taxiways. I will continue to fight for these resources to help enhance efficiency and public safety at New York airports.”

Last year, Schumer and Gillibrand secured over $8.9 million in federal funds to begin renovations at the airport. JFK Airport will use the funding to complete 728 foot runway extension and structural upgrades to the Runway 4L/22R safety area by widening the runway by 200 feet to accommodate the latest and largest planes in the airlines’ fleet, including the A380. 

The funding will also cover the final phases of construction of the new 520 foot high speed taxiway for Runway 4L to reduce runway occupancy time, and construction of a new 400 foot stub taxiway that will connect new runway pavement with the realigned Taxiway E.