Pennsylvania Governor Edward G. Rendell announced June 1 that the commonwealth will provide nearly $3 million to 16 airports for safety improvements and facility maintenance.
“Airports are important assets that can attract new business and create jobs,” Rendell said. “We are making the smart investments necessary to increase economic vitality and facilitate the more than $12 billion in state revenue the aviation industry yields each year. By investing in our aviation assets we can help sustain our communities and retain jobs across Pennsylvania.” Funding for the grants comes from the state’s jet fuel tax. The grants leverage $904,800 in local matching funds.
Since 2003, Pennsylvania has spent more than $87 million in state funds to improve airports around the state. Nearly 290,000 people are employed in the aviation field statewide, representing some 5% of the workforce. The state has 134 public-use airports and heliports and 15 airports have scheduled commercial service. Public-use airports in the state are eligible for the aviation development program.
For information: http://www.governor.state.pa.us/
