July 20, 2012

Manchin, Rockefeller Announce Funds for Improvements at Braxton County Airport

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Senators Jay Rockefeller, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, and Joe Manchin today announced $471,260 in federal funding for the Braxton County Airport for runway repairs and improvements.

“Air travel into and out of West Virginia is important for small businesses, for tourism, and for our economy,” said Rockefeller. “This money is great news for Braxton County, so that this airport and the people who use it will benefit.  Maintaining and improving the safety and readiness of West Virginia’s airports is one of my top priorities.  Good air service is one of the best ways to make sure we have a strong economic future for the state.” 

“Investing in our infrastructure is one of the best ways we can improve our communities, grow our economy and create jobs,” Manchin said.  “Ensuring that our transportation infrastructure is safe and reliable will help our communities attract businesses and residents, which will strengthen our economy.  This grant will help Braxton County Airport make the necessary improvements to be able to transport people and goods effectively across West Virginia and the country.”

The grant was awarded through the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Airport Improvement Program (AIP).

Background

AIP was established by the Airport and Airway Improvement Act of 1982 in order to provide grants for the planning, development, and improvement of public-use airports.  These grants are highly sought after, and the FAA bases distribution of these funds on current national objectives and priorities.  The grant money can be used for a variety of projects, including runways, airfield lighting, weather observation stations, land acquisition, and environmental studies.

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