September 19, 2011

Rockefeller, Manchin Announce Federal Funds to Build New Airplane Parking and Loading Area at Fairmont Airport

WASHINGTON, D.C – Senators Jay Rockefeller and Joe Manchin today announced that the Fairmont Municipal Airport will receive $2,451,000 in federal funding for the construction of an apron to park and load aircraft.  As Chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, Rockefeller has jurisdiction over the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and has worked to make sure West Virginia’s airports have the resources they need to attract economic development and serve their communities. 

The new apron will allow for the reliable storage of airplanes and provide additional space to make sure that air traffic can move more safely and effectively at the airport.  It will also help generate more revenue for Fairmont Municipal Airport as it will have greater flexibility for aircraft operations and storage. 

“This award will help enable Fairmont’s airport to continue to operate successfully while allowing for future growth with the improved facilities,” said Rockefeller.  “West Virginia’s airports are essential to our local communities, encouraging business and tourism, and bringing in revenue to the area.  This funding will help Fairmont’s airport run even more safely and effectively, and I will continue to fight to make sure our airports have the resources they need.”

“I believe that it’s time we turned our focus to rebuilding America, and improving critical transportation infrastructure in West Virginia is a great place to start,” Manchin said.  “Keeping Fairmont Municipal Airport and its facilities safe and up-to-date help keep our economy moving and attract businesses and residents, which creates jobs.  I am committed to making West Virginia a more competitive place to work and do business, and I am pleased that these funds will help spur the economic development that our state needs.”

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