LAKE CLEAR — A new federal grant allows for continued safety improvements at Adirondack Regional Airport.
The award of $151,525 from the U.S. Department of Transportation will pay for runway and lighting upgrades.
At the airport in Lake Clear, Manager Corey Hurwitch said he was very happy to learn the grant request was approved.
“It makes my day,” he said.
It’s money, Mr. Hurwitch said, for the Runway 27 displacement project.
“This project will displace the landing threshold of our crosswind runway (a shorter runway) so we can better utilize an access road that crosses under the approach to the runway.
“This will ensure a higher level of safety for aircraft using the runway and vehicles on the access road by increasing a separation between the two.
“The project will include lighting improvements and repainting of the runway.”
U.S. Sens. Charles E. Schumer, D-N.Y., and Kirsten E. Gillibrand, D-N.Y., said the new lighting system will enhance safe airfield operations during low visibility.
“This is an important investment that will ensure pilots flying into Adirondack Airport and the Tri-Lakes area will be able to land their planes safely,” Sen. Schumer said in a news release.
“Our regional airports are important centers of economic activity, and when it comes to aviation safety, we should assist our airports with resources needed for safe travel.”
Sen. Gillibrand said Adirondack Airport is a vital economic anchor for business and visitors.
“I will continue to push for funding for resources that enhance efficiency and public safety,” she said in the release.
The funding is part of the Airport Improvement Program, administered by DOT’s Federal Aviation Administration.
Money for the program draws from the Airport and Airway Trust fund, which is supported by user fees, fuel taxes and similar revenue sources.
Last January, Adirondack Regional Airport completed a $1 million expansion at the terminal, with additional room for passengers inside the safety clearance area, new restrooms and upgrades to equipment used by the Transportation Security Administration.
Other improvements to the runway and runway lighting have been completed in the past year.
In August, the airport received another $632,610 in grants to expand and improve the aircraft rescue and firefighting building and build a garage for snow-clearing equipment.