WASHINGTON, D.C. –
U.S.
Senators Benjamin L. Cardin and
Barbara A. Mikulski (both D-Md.) today announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded the Greater Cumberland Regional Airport $167,639 through the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) to rehabilitate its runway.

“I strongly support investing in airport safety and this federal grant will provide for needed infrastructure improvements to the runway at Greater Cumberland Regional Airport,” said Senator Cardin. “This is a very positive step forward for the economy of Western Maryland and win-win for the entire region and our state.”

 “The Greater Cumberland Regional Airport is a transportation and economic development priority for Western Maryland – and it's one of my priorities too,” said Senator Mikulski, a senior member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation. “The airport is critical to the Western Maryland economy, and to Marylanders who use it to stay connected to jobs and family. I will continue to fight to improve the safe operation of the Greater Cumberland Regional Airport.”

The airport will use these funds to purchase land surrounding its runways to create a runway protection zone. This zone ensures the safety of air passengers as well as airport personnel. The airport will also be able to clear any obstructions to safe take-offs and landings.

This program provides both formula and discretionary funding to airports. Revenues for AIP come from airport user fees and fuel taxes. Last year, Congress provided $3.5 billion for AIP. This funding can be used for exterior capital improvements and repairs including: new runways, aprons, lighting, planning and land purchases.