New York State has awarded $25 million to improve safety and operations at 16 public-use airports across the state. The funding, distributed through the AIR NY Aviation Capital Grant Program, will be used for projects such as hangar replacements, security upgrades, and new snow removal equipment.
Governor Kathy Hochul announced the initiative as part of a broader effort to support aviation facilities that serve local communities and contribute to economic growth. “Thanks to our historic investments, New York’s airports are soaring to new heights and invigorating their local communities with new opportunities for economic growth and tourism,” Governor Hochul said. “This new funding available from New York State DOT’s AIR NY program will keep that momentum going and help our local airports provide more efficient and convenient travel experiences for residents and visitors alike.”
Marie Therese Dominguez, New York State Transportation Commissioner, emphasized the importance of these investments. “Governor Hochul understands that investments in our airports are investments in the economic well-being of our entire state, making it easier for people to live, work and do business here. These AIR NY investments will help ensure that our local communities are able to make important improvements in the safety, security and resilience of their airports so that in turn, they can serve as modern gateways, welcoming new businesses and opportunities that will enhance the long-term economic prosperity of each community.”
The Department of Transportation oversees the AIR NY program, which supports projects aimed at improving public safety, sustainability, operational performance, innovation, and regional economies. In 2023, about $49 million was granted for infrastructure enhancements at 36 public-use airports statewide.
Major recipients this year include Syracuse Hancock International Airport ($2.5 million for a snow control center), Buffalo Niagara International Airport ($2.5 million for deicing fluid treatment), Griffiss International Airport ($2.3 million for sand/salt storage), Finger Lakes Regional Airport ($1.6 million for maintenance equipment building), and Plattsburgh International Airport (over $750,000 for security upgrades).
Other funded projects involve electric ground service equipment at Adirondack Regional Airport; a solar-equipped hangar at Akron Airport/Jesson Field; geothermal heating systems at Ithaca Tompkins International Airport; utility upgrades at LeRoy Airport; T-Hangar construction at Malone Dufort Airport; water connection improvements at Ogdensburg International Airport; a repair facility at Orange County Airport; snow removal equipment replacement at Republic Airport; a multi-purpose building at South Albany Airport; fuel truck acquisition at Watertown International Airport; among others.
The Aviation Capital Grant Program is open to qualified public-use airports listed in the state’s airport system plan. Projects are selected competitively based on criteria such as potential economic benefits to surrounding areas, alignment with development plans, safety enhancements, operational efficiency gains, energy savings or emissions reductions.
According to its mission statement, the New York State Department of Transportation aims to provide a safe and resilient transportation system connecting communities while supporting environmental protection and economic well-being throughout New York State.
