Regional Affairs

State lawmakers allocate money for airport improvement

Nearly a dozen Pennsylvania airports would get facelifts if a bill that overwhelmingly passed the state's House of Representatives is approved by the Senate. House Bill 2317 provides almost $10.6 million for improvements at 11 general aviation airports, including the acquisition and development of Kutztown Airport. About $3 million would be allocated for hangar construction at eight airports. "Pennsylvania's lawmakers recognize that airports are an important public resource and that significant funds are needed to help keep general aviation airports safe, secure, and operational," said Roger Cohen, AOPA vice president of regional affairs. These funds are part of an extensive capital budget bill that must still go through the Senate, so it is possible the amount of money given to these airports could still change. Senate negotiations will not be complete for three to six months.

December 23, 2005