August 22, 2011

Rahall, Rockefeller, Manchin Announce FAA Funding for Raleigh County Airport

BECKLEY, W.Va. - U.S. Rep. Nick Rahall (D-W.Va.), top Democrat on House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, along with Senators Jay Rockefeller and Joe Manchin (both D-W.Va.), Monday announced that Raleigh County Airport will receive $147,000 in federal funding to improve its runway approaches and transitional surfaces.

“Some shortsighted people argue that we cannot afford the upkeep, much less improve the long-term potential of our country’s transportation system.  This funding underscores the need for a federal role in making certain our nation’s basic infrastructure works so America can compete in the global economy,” said Rahall.  “I am committed to fighting for federal dollars that improve our roads and airports in southern West Virginia, particularly as we grow our economy and get ready for the increased traffic the Boy Scout High Adventure Center will generate here.”

“Our airports provide a critical gateway for businesses and economic development in West Virginia’s communities,” said Senator Rockefeller, who chairs the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation.  “This funding will help make sure that all the runways at Raleigh County Memorial Airport are able to fully operate, helping to boost economic growth and enabling our local businesses to thrive.”

“It's time that we invest in rebuilding America, this funding will help improve our existing transportation infrastructure and boost economic development and create jobs,” Senator Manchin said. “Reliable transportation helps us attract residents and businesses to West Virginia, which is absolutely critical to the strength of our economy. These funds will also help us get ready for the influx of visitors we will see as the Boy Scouts of America prepare to host their national Jamboree, an event I was proud to help bring to West Virginia.”

The funding was awarded by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to the Raleigh County Airport Authority, in order to remove obstructions in Runways 1-19 and 10-28 approach and transitional surfaces at the Raleigh County Airport.