WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Barbara A. Mikulski (both D-Md.) today announced that St. Mary’s County has been awarded a $ 1,961,267 Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) to fund phase II of the 1,200 foot extension of Runway 11/29 at the St. Mary’s County Regional Airport, a base of operation for the Maryland Department of State Police Aviation Division and MedSTAR (Medical Shock Trauma Acute Resuscitation).

“Investing in safety and efficiency at St. Mary’s Regional Airport is the right thing to do for travelers, the regional economy and public safety,” said Senator Cardin, a senior member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. “Regional airports are integral to our economic infrastructure, keeping Maryland’s diverse economy moving in the right direction. Through grants like these, the federal government is investing in economic growth.”

“Our regional airports play a key role in maintaining Maryland’s robust economy,” said Senator Mikulski, Vice Chairwoman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, which funds DOT. “These funds in the federal checkbook for runway expansion will help the St. Mary’s County Regional Airport operate safely and efficiently while keeping Marylanders on the go.”

The grant will be used to extend the runway to meet the operational needs of the airport. Additionally, the project will include relocating a section of Air Port Drive and the necessary utilities.  St. Mary’s County Regional Airport is located 4 miles northeast of Leonardtown, Md., and is owned and operated by St. Mary’s County.

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