Five communities in the Norton Sound area are receiving federal funds for airport improvements. The awards, totalling just over $2.1 million, were announced on Friday by the U.S. Department of Transportation.
The awards are part of the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Improvement Program (AIP). The program was established in 1982 and has awarded billions of dollars worth of infrastructure to communities across the country.
U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy celebrated the program’s nationwide award of $1.776 billion in a Friday press release.
“We’re ushering in the Golden Age of Transportation and rebuilding our airport infrastructure is critical to making that vision a reality,” Duffy said.
The Nome Airport is set to receive $285,000 to resurface its aprons, taxiways and runways. The airport underwent a $27,921,522 major reconstruction in 2021 and 2022. The reconstruction was primarily funded through the AIP.
Airports in Shaktoolik, Shishmaref, Unalakleet and Wales are receiving $456,000 each for reconstruction of snow removal equipment. The funds are typically used to replace aging machinery.
In the release, Alaska Congressman Nick Begich said the funds would “ensure airport crews have the equipment they need” throughout Alaska’s tough winters.
“I appreciate the FAA and Secretary Sean Duffy for recognizing the importance of investing in Alaska's aviation infrastructure, and I look forward to continuing our work together to strengthen our state's transportation network,” Begich said.
Airports in Alaska received about $120 million in total, good for nearly 7% of the national total.
