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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: August 31, 2004

SCHUMER ANNOUNCES OVER $10 MILLION FOR JFK AIRPORT IMPROVEMENTS

Three FAA grants will help pay for security upgrades and runway safety area improvements

US Senator Charles E. Schumer today announced that the US Department of Transportation has awarded more than $10 million in Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grants to the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. The federal funds will be used for projects at John F. Kennedy International Airport.

"In this post 9/11 world, airport security needs to remain a number one priority. This funding will allow John F. Kennedy International Airport to carry out its plans for a series of improvements," Schumer said. "These projects will help ensure that every step is being taken to provide the best possible airport security measures."

Two of the grants, totaling $9,878,101 million, are being awarded to cover security enhancements at JFK, which include measures such as detection systems, fencing, and guard booths.

Schumer noted that one year ago in August 2003, three Brooklyn youths in an inflatable raft were blown ashore at JFK airport and did not encounter any airport security until they walked into the airport's police headquarters.

The third grant, amounting to $327,924, will be used for specific runway area improvements after a Runway Safety Area Study was conducted. The runway area improvement project will help ensure safe daily aircraft operation at JFK.

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