Press Release

March 2, 2009
CARDIN, MIKULSKI ANNOUNCE MORE THAN $2 MILLION FOR BAY BRIDGE AIRPORT


WASHINGTON, D.C. –
U.S.
Benjamin L. Cardin and
Senators Barbara A. Mikulski (both D-Md.) today announced that the U.S. Department of Transportation has awarded the Bay Bridge Airport in Stevensville, MD $2.06 million through the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) to extend its runway.



 


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



 



 “Bay Bridge Airport plays a key role in maintaining the Eastern Shore’s economy. Improving this runway means providing Americans with safe access to the beautiful Chesapeake Bay and the historical landmarks in the area,” said Senator Mikulski, a senior member of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Transportation. “I have consistently fought for the Eastern Shore in the U.S. Senate, and I will continue to work to ensure that Bay Bridge Airport has a voice in Washington.”



 


This funding will complete the partial parallel taxiway at the Bay Bridge Airport. Finishing this project will improve access to the runway ends and also make part of the airport’s property accessible for future development. The excess soil from the taxiway construction will be used to fill low spots and eroded areas to improve the runway safety area, enhancing overall safety.


 


AIP program provides both formula and discretionary funding to airports. Revenues for AIP come from airport user fees and fuel taxes. There is $3.5 billion in the 2009 Omnibus Act for AIP. This funding can be used for exterior capital improvements and repairs including: new runways, aprons, lighting, planning and land purchases.

X