Oregon airports to receive nearly $14.5 million in federal investment

From our partner's newsroom:

U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden, as well as U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Val Hoyle (OR-04) Andrea Salinas (OR-06), and Maxine Dexter (OR-03), announced that nine Oregon airports will receive a combined federal investment of nearly $14.5 million to improve their infrastructure, including over $10 million going to Portland International Airport (PDX) for service, runway and taxiway pavement improvements, and terminal rehabilitation.

"Our regional airports are vital hubs for Oregonians, supporting local businesses and providing essential lifelines during natural disasters. I’ll keep fighting to secure critical federal funds for essential airport improvements—such as terminal modernization and runway reconstruction—improving the efficiency and reliability of Oregon’s airports and benefiting the folks who rely on them for business, travel, and so much more," said Merkley."

"Whether it’s Oregonians looking for safe and convenient travel options, visitors flying to Eugene for a Ducks game, to Portland for its amazing cuisine, or to Eastern Oregon looking to explore our beautiful outdoors, airports across our state are essential infrastructure," Wyden said. "I applaud these federal awards to airports across Oregon, and I am committed to fighting for more resources that help keep local economies growing and communities connected."

"Rural regional airports are a driving force in both economic development and access to life-saving emergency services for surrounding communities. This investment in critical infrastructure at Columbia County’s largest airport is an investment in the safety and prosperity of the people of Columbia County," said Bonamici. 

"Eugene is a world class city, and it deserves world class transportation. This investment is a step towards realizing that goal," said Hoyle. "Eugene Airport is the 5th largest airport in the pacific northwest, and it is a vital transportation hub, destination and place of employment for more than 1,200 people in the community. Nearly 2 million people rely on the airport yearly for their transportation needs. The grant will go a long way to improving traveler experiences and supporting the area’s anticipated growth."

"This funding is a direct investment in Oregon’s farmers, small businesses, and families who rely on these airports to support their business, see their loved ones, and stay connected within the state and around the world. When this infrastructure works, our local economies work. I’ll keep working to make sure Oregonians have the infrastructure needed to thrive," said Salinas.

"Investments in airports across the state mean safer travel, stronger local economies, and more resilient communities," said Dexter. “These upgrades will help keep Oregonians connected, supporting everything from emergency services to everyday travel," said Dexter.

The awards totaling more than $14.5 million from the U.S. Department of Transportation for the Oregon airports are as follows:

• $10,683,661 for Portland International Airport (PDX) to rehabilitate 1,425 feet of existing paved runway; renovate restrooms, service animal relief area, improve wayfinding, replace moving walkways and construct a children’s play area; and reconstruct 153,500 square feet of existing terminal concourses including roofing and exterior rehabilitation.
• $2,000,000 for Eugene Airport to support the construction of a new outbound baggage system, including a baggage screening area.
• $563,000 for Ashland Municipal Airport to reconstruct 131 feet of taxilane, reseal 3,331 feet of taxilane, and reseal 3,791 feet of runway.
• $285,000 for Pendleton Eastern Oregon Regional Airport for a snow removal plow and snow removal broom.
• $274,000 for Hermiston Airport to construct a new 15,000 square foot aircraft storage hangar.
• $225,000 for Scappoose Airport to reseal 5,100 feet of taxiway.
• $200,000 for Salem’s McNary Field to rehabilitate 1,250 feet of existing taxiway.
• $137,000 for La Grande/Union County Airport to construct 360 feet of taxilane.
• $137,000 for Prineville Airport to construct a new 15,000 square foot aircraft storage hanger.

"From the terminal to the taxiways, we keep PDX safe, efficient, and family-friendly," said Curtis Robinhold, Executive Director of the Port of Portland. "It’s great to have a delegation that supports PDX and the work we do here, including maintaining critical infrastructure and offering top-notch amenities. This collaboration is key to connecting Oregonians to the world and creating quality jobs in the region."

"This FAA Airport Terminal Program award represents a significant investment in the future of the Eugene Airport," said Airport Director Cathryn Stephens, A.A.E. "The new inline baggage screening facility will modernize a vital component of our terminal operations, enhancing efficiency and creating a more seamless experience for passengers while supporting current demand, anticipated growth, and the airport’s longterm resiliency."

"We’re looking forward to putting this FAA grant to work on much needed rehabilitation of the airport’s aging pavement. With a strong team of consultants, construction partners, and FBO staff, we’re confident the improvements will significantly benefit the aviation community and be well received once complete," said Kaylea Kathol, Project Manager for City of Ashland.

"As always, we truly appreciate the hard work and continued support of Senator Merkley and Senator Wyden," said Wayne Green, Associate Engineer and Airfield Engineer with the Eastern Oregon Regional Airport. "This snow removal equipment is essential to maintain the Eastern Oregon Regional Airport in compliance with FAA standards and ensuring that commercial air service continues to operate smoothly during winter months."

"We are so grateful to have this opportunity. Taking care of one of the Salem-Willamette Valley Airport’s primary taxiway means we can get more out of the taxiway and extend its life. This $200,000 grant closes the last gap in funding.  We can now address deteriorating pavement conditions and reduce safety concerns for all Salem’s aircraft enthusiasts." said Salem Mayor Julie Hoy.

"I appreciate Senator Merkley and Senator Wyden for their advocacy the Union County Airport," said Paul Anderes, Union County Commissioner. "Union County Airport serves as a regional hub for wildland firefighting efforts as well as support for general aviation."