Press Release

Schumer, Gillibrand Announce Over $346,000 In Federal Funding For Akron Airport In Erie County

Sep 12, 2016

Buffalo, N.Y. – U.S. Senators Charles E. Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand today announced $346,510 in federal funding for infrastructure projects at the Akron Airport operated by the Christian Airmen’s Fellowship. The funding was allocated through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s (DOT) Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Program. The Akron Airport will use the funding to purchase 3.44 acres of land needed for future airport development, install runway vertical/visual guidance system, and rehabilitate runway lighting.

“Keeping our airports in top-notch shape is crucial to attracting business and tourism to the region,” said Senator Schumer. “This federal funding will allow the Akron Airport to make critical infrastructure upgrades to its runway lighting and visual guidance systems that will enable safer, more efficient service for the passengers and pilots who fly in and out of Erie County every day.”

“Investing in our airport infrastructure enables safer, more efficient service for the businesses and travelers who use Akron Airport,” said Senator Gillibrand. “These funds through the Department of Transportation are a major investment that will allow the airport to renovate and upgrade its facilities. I will continue to push for resources that enhance public safety at airports across New York.”

This funding is awarded through the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) 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.