Airport Receives Federal Grants for Airfield Improvements, August 1

Senator Merkley’s office announced Southwest Oregon Regional Airport has received two grant awards as part of the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Improvement Program. The Airport was awarded $262,445 to redesign the airfield lighting and signage to current standards, and $500,000 to complete an environmental assessment for planned improvements to the primary runway safety area. The current airfield lighting and signage system dates to 1994; the redesign project will include lighting, guidance signs, wind cones and pavement markings for all runways, taxiways, and precision approach path indicators. An environmental assessment is the first phase a project to improve the Runway 22 Safety Area to ensure it meets the FAA’s commercial aircraft standards. The improvement involves investigating alternatives to fill the northwest corner of the runway safety area into the bay to ensure it meets the standard for C-III aircraft. “We appreciate the ongoing support of Senator Merkley and his staff in recognizing Southwest Oregon Regional Airport’s value to our regional economy and our quality of life,” explains Theresa Cook, Executive Director of the Airport. “This funding will improve the safety of our airfield and will ensure continued commercial air service for our community.” These grants will fund 94% of the necessary project costs; Southwest Oregon Regional Airport will provide the 6% matching funds required. The FAA’s Airport Improvement Program (AIP) 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). These grant awards are designated for prioritized capital projects that are included in each airport’s Master Plan.