Press Release

July 1, 2020
Cardin, Van Hollen, Trone Announce More Than $16 Million for Western Maryland Airports

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen and Congressman David Trone (all D-Md.) today announced $16,002,938 in funding through the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) for airport infrastructure improvements in Western Maryland.

  • Hagerstown Regional Airport-Richard A. Henson Field (HGR) will receive $6,304,480 for the rehabilitation of its main runway (more information here);
  • Garrett County Airport (2G4) will receive $5,035,688 for the expansion of its apron (more information here); and,   
  • Frederick Municipal Airport (FDK) will receive $4,662,770 for the relocation of a taxiway (more information here).

Funds authorized under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, which waived local cost-share requirements for federal airport grants through FY2020, will help cover state and local funding obligations for the projects.

“These airports provide a vital connection between Western Maryland and other parts of our state and region. They have continued to serve communities and local economies despite facing significant financial challenges in recent months,” said Senator Cardin, Ranking Member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee’s Transportation and Infrastructure Subcommittee. “Improving and upgrading Maryland’s public infrastructure will be critical for our recovery from the downturn brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. I will continue to fight for investments like these throughout our state.” 

“The Hagerstown Regional Airport, Frederick Municipal Airport, and Garrett County Airport serve as crucial connecting hubs, support local jobs, and create economic opportunity. This investment will go a long way toward keeping critical infrastructure modernized so that all our airports can continue providing top-notch service,” said Senator Van Hollen, a member of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee. “We will keep working to bring federal resources to Maryland’s transportation infrastructure given the vital role they play in local communities like these in Western Maryland.”

“The COVID-19 pandemic has placed a financial strain on Garrett County Airport, Hagerstown Regional Airport, and Frederick Municipal Airport, all of which provide critical connections to Western Maryland,” said Congressman David Trone. “This funding will ensure that these airports will continue to serve Western Maryland and the surrounding communities. I will continue working with our state’s Senators to fight hard for infrastructure projects that help stimulate economic growth throughout the region.” 

The Members have fought against the Administration’s denial of the Hagerstown Regional Airport’s eligibility to participate in the Essential Air Services Program.

The congressional delegation previously announced funding through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act for these airports among for these airports among others statewide.

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