Oregon airports, including Madras’, to receive nearly $19 million for infrastructure upgrades
BEND, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Eight Oregon airports are slated to receive a combined federal investment of nearly $19 million for infrastructure improvements.
U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden, alongside U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici, Maxine Dexter and Janelle Bynum, announced the funding. Over $13 million of the total will be allocated to Portland International Airport for runway and taxiway upgrades.
The funding, provided by the federal Department of Transportation, aims to enhance safe and reliable air travel across Oregon. This investment is intended to support the state's economy, boost local tourism and provide crucial assistance during emergencies.
U.S. Sen. Merkley emphasized the importance of access to reliable air travel for the state. “Whether flying for recreation or business, Oregonians' access to safe, reliable air travel is vital to driving Oregon's economy forward, growing local tourism and providing essential lifelines during emergencies,” Merkley said. “Investing in critical airport improvements—such as runways, weather observation and safety systems—will allow these hubs to continue to support small businesses, local communities and Oregon's economy for years to come.”
U.S. Sen. Wyden noted that communities statewide depend on their local airports. “Communities across Oregon rely on their local airports to support their economies, respond to natural disasters and stay connected,” Wyden said. “I applaud these federal investments that will keep Oregonians safe and I will continue to fight for more resources that strengthen airport infrastructure across the state.”
U.S. Rep. Bonamici highlighted the connectivity the investments bring, particularly to rural areas. “Investing in regional airports keeps Oregonians connected, including in rural communities like Tillamook County,” Bonamici said. “These critical infrastructure improvements will help small businesses access markets, increase resilience during disaster events and improve the experience for passengers. I'm glad we are able to deliver these investments in Oregon.”
U.S. Rep. Dexter added that the upgrades will strengthen local economies and emergency response. “Federal investments in our airports mean safer travel, stronger local economies and better emergency response capabilities for communities across Oregon,” Dexter said. “From modernizing runways and taxiways at PDX to improving weather and safety systems in rural communities, these upgrades will help keep Oregonians connected and ensure our infrastructure can meet the demands of the future.” U.S. Rep. Bynum stated, “Oregon is open for business. $19 million for our airports is about making sure our first impression sticks the landing to attract repeat customers to our state.”
Portland International Airport (PDX) is set to receive $13,192,585. These funds will rehabilitate 9,830 feet of existing paved runway, reconstruct 200 feet of existing paved connector taxiways, construct a new 200-foot connector taxiway and rehabilitate 1,425 feet of the existing asphalt taxiway. Curtis Robinhold, executive director of the Port of Portland, expressed appreciation for the funding. “I appreciate the Oregon delegation's commitment to keeping our infrastructure ready for all scenarios, whether that's severe weather or increased capacity,” Robinhold said. “We're eager to put this funding to work to upgrade PDX's North Runway, including its lighting and navigation systems and sustain our track record of safe and efficient airport operations.”
Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport will receive $4,455,343 to rehabilitate 20,700 square yards of existing apron pavement and reconstruct 7,100 square yards of the existing apron pavement. Amber Judd, airport director for Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport, noted the importance of the grant for specific operations. “The Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport is appreciative of the grant award,” Judd said. “These funds will allow us to rehabilitate and/or reconstruct the asphalt portion of a large General Aviation (GA) apron immediately adjacent to MillionAir, one of our Fixed Base Operators (FBOs), as well as Mercy Flights, our local emergency air-ambulance provider. This asphalt is nearing the end of its useful life and this project will ensure continued, improved access to and from these important airport businesses for many years to come.”
Troutdale Airport has been awarded $552,506 to reseal 13,000 feet of existing taxiways and joints. Crater Lake-Klamath Regional Airport will receive $150,000 to support rehabilitating 9,888 square yards of existing apron pavement. Independence State Airport is slated to receive $144,000 for the installation of a precision approach path indicator system for a runway. Grant County Regional Airport will use its $115,600 to construct a new helipad.
Tillamook Airport will receive $150,000 for the construction of a new fuel farm. This project includes adding two fuel tanks and two self-service pumps, along with associated apron pavement for a new fuel type. Michele Bradley, general manager of the Port of Tillamook Bay/Tillamook Municipal Airport, stated the upgrade is crucial for sustainability. “The Port of Tillamook Bay is grateful for the funding assistance for our Airport Fuel System Upgrade,” Bradley said. “Our fuel system is outdated and is becoming inefficient. This upgrade will keep the airport sustainable and contributes to the economic viability of the Tillamook Coast.”
Madras Municipal Airport will receive $102,769 to replace its existing Automated Weather Observing System. Lorraine Martinelli, airport manager for Madras Municipal Airport, highlighted the safety enhancements the funding provides. “We are honored that Madras Municipal Airport has been awarded a federal grant through the Department of Transportation, which will allow us to make critical improvements to our airport's weather system infrastructure,” Martinelli said. “The funding will provide for the design phase of the Automated Weather Observation System (AWOS) replacement. The AWOS is heavily relied on for the safety of our pilots and crews. These funds will enhance safety, ensuring our facility continues to meet the needs of our growing community and the region we serve. Our current system has served us well, but the components are no longer serviceable and the system is nearing the end of its service life.”
Martinelli also indicated that Madras Municipal Airport plans to apply for additional grant funding next year to cover the construction and full replacement of its AWOS system.
