Albany, NY - May 7, 2018 - Governor Andrew M. Cuomo today announced that $20 million in new state funding is now available to support safety improvements, modernize operations and enhance the economic competitiveness of New York airports. The Airport Capital Grant Program provides support for projects statewide that enhance airport safety, modernize operations, and increase general and business-related aviation capacity.
"New York's airports are the front door to diverse destinations, attractions and culture found across this great state," Governor Cuomo said. "By making funding available for New York's aviation industry, we are supporting the state's thriving tourism sector, helping businesses expand to boost our regional economies, and ensuring our transit hubs are modernized to provide safe, reliable travel for everyone."
"As one of New York's most frequent flyers, I have seen dramatic changes in our airports -- which not only improve service to travelers, but are also a point of pride for the local community," said Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul. "We're making significant enhancements to our airports, from New York City to Rochester and Syracuse. New York is committed to making travel more reliable and safe, while supporting improvements to modernize our airports for the 21st century."
Previous grant awards have funded new airport hangars, airport terminal building renovations, taxiway resurfacing, security fencing, and fuel farm modernizations that improve security and spill prevention.
The Aviation Capital Grant Program is open to public-use airports listed in the State Airport System Plan. Eligible project activities include safety projects, preservation projects, new construction, and other projects that enhance economic competitiveness.
Projects will be selected through a competitive solicitation process and rated based on established criteria including:
- Economic benefits for surrounding communities and businesses,
- Adherence to regional economic development plans; and
- Improved operational efficiency.
The New York State Department of Transportation will be accepting applications for this funding opportunity through Friday, June 29, 2018. Program guidance and applications may be found at: www.dot.ny.gov/aviationgrants.
This funding is in addition to $200 million Governor Cuomo made available through the Upstate Airport Economic Development and Revitalization competition. The competition includes $190 million to support airport projects and $10 million allocated through the Governor's Aviation Capital Grant Program.
In the first round of the Upstate Airport Competition, $40 million was awarded to Elmira Corning Regional Airport and $39.8 million in funding was awarded to the Greater Rochester International Airport. In round two, Plattsburgh International Airport will receive $38 million and Syracuse Hancock International Airport will receive $35.8 million towards their transformation. The bold plans and designs developed by these airports will enhance safety, improve operations and access, reduce environmental impact, and create a better passenger experience.
DOT Acting Commissioner Paul Karas said, "Governor Cuomo's unparalleled investments in airports across the State have created jobs and facilitated regional economic development opportunities. Airports continue to be a key component of the vibrant State economy and these targeted investments will ensure their continued safe and efficient operations for all New Yorkers."
Chair of the Senate Committee on Transportation Joseph E. Robach said, "As Chairman of the Senate Transportation Committee, I believe that it is critically important to invest in safety improvements and the modernization of operations for airports across New York State. These grants will allow communities across our state to improve the economic competitiveness of their airports while ensuring residents, and visitors to our great state, have the ability to use airports that are safe and efficient. Continuing to improve our state's airports is an important step in bringing a 21st Century transportation infrastructure to New York State."
Co-Chair of the Legislative Aviation Caucus Senator Phil Boyle said, "The economic boon generated from this type of funding access can dramatically change the financial scope of a community. Assisting regional airports with funding resources to improve safety and modernize aging facilities is a critical step in job growth, business expansion, and a potential tourism boost to regions across the state. I applaud the Governor and the State's DOT on this important grant program and encourage all airports across the state to apply for these crucial jumpstart funds."
Chair of the Assembly Committee on Transportation David F. Gantt said, "As Assembly Transportation Committee Chair I am pleased to see that our state's airports are eligible for funding to help make them safer, more competitive, and more effective in general for travelers, for the communities where they are located and for our State's economy."
Co-Chair of the Legislative Aviation Caucus Assemblymember Donna Lupardo said, "The Airport Capital Grant Program targets smaller New York airports that are important economic drivers in their communities. Regular upgrades to improve safety and modernize operations is important to staying competitive. As Co-Chair of the Legislative Aviation Caucus, I'd like to thank the Governor for his commitment to the state's airports and look forward to building on this commitment in the years to come."