May 18, 2023

Merkley, Wyden Announce Nearly $3.5 Million Coming to Oregon for Airport Improvements

Washington, D.C. – Oregon’s U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) is awarding six airports across the state nearly $3.5 million under the Airport Improvement Program (AIP)

“Oregonians across the state and industries rely on air travel for many reasons, whether it’s for recreation, support for firefighting, or to transport goods,” said Senator Merkley. “This federal funding will help ensure Oregon’s regional airports are able to ensure safe travels for Oregonians and visitors alike as they fly throughout the state.”

“These federal investments in the safety and efficiency of rural Oregon airports generate good-paying jobs and help to protect communities needing reliable air options for fighting wildfires, delivering medicines, providing emergency transport and more,” Wyden said. “I’m gratified these funds are en route to our state and will keep battling for similar infrastructure resources throughout Oregon.”

The AIP grant program funds airport infrastructure projects like runways, taxiways, airport signage, airport lighting, and airport markings in an effort to strengthen our nation's aviation infrastructure. These awards will go toward pavement, runway, and taxiway improvements, and safety area construction.

Information on the awards coming to Oregon can be found below:

  • Madras Municipal: $955,040
  • Florence Municipal: $921,947
  • Southwest Oregon Regional: $500,000
  • La Grande/Union County: $450,000
  • Prineville: $450,000
  • Scappoose $160,000

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