WATERTOWN – Watertown International Airport has received a $3.4 million financial infusion to improve airfield signage and runways.
U.S. Senate Majority Leader Charles E. Schumer and Senator Kirsten E. Gillibrand announced Monday that $3,415,728 in federal funding would be provided for the repairs.
The funding will allow the airport to replace 36 airfield guidance signs that are too old to be used and repair cracks in the pavement on the runways, which is important to prevent wear and tear and maintain safety during the winter months.
The funding comes at a time when Americans are increasingly concerned about air travel, Schumer said.
“Keeping our airport runways and signage in top condition is critical to the safety of travelers and to attract business and tourism activity to the north of the country,” he said.
Gillibrand said it was critical to ensure the safety of the thousands of passengers leaving the airport.
“I am proud to have helped secure this funding and will continue to fight for the urgent modernization and improvement of airports across New York State,” she said.
Jefferson County Board of Legislators Chairman William W. Johnson and Airport Director Grant W. Sussey added that the improvements are necessary to ensure passenger safety.
“When aircraft land in Jefferson County, we need to make sure they do so on a smooth surface and that pilots have clear signage available,” Sussey said.
The project includes the rehabilitation of runway 10-28 between runway 10 and the intersection of runway 10-28 and runway 7-25. Parts of runway 10-28 were last rehabilitated in 2004.
The rehabilitation is to include the connectors to taxiways Al, A2 and B through the runway safety area and 20 feet beyond. The project also includes the replacement of guidance signs, installation of an additional wind cone and corrections to the slope of the runway safety area.
Funding is provided through the Airport Improvement Program of the Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration. Funds allocated to the AIP come from the Airport and Airway Trust Fund, which is supported by user fees, fuel taxes, and other similar revenue sources.
In the past, the two senators had secured about $8.4 million in federal funds for the airport.
Next year, the airport will undergo a $20 million project to renovate the terminal and gateway, with work expected to be completed next summer.
