For Immediate Release:

Friday, June 8, 2007

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) announced a total of over $8.3 million in federal support for critical airport improvement projects across Washington state, including a $875,000 grant for Yakima Air Terminal in Yakima.   

The Yakima Air Terminal will use this grant – provided through the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) – for improvements to the runway safety area, including building a road around an active runway for emergency vehicles and airport personnel, which currently have to cross the runway, posing a safety risk.  Funds will also be used for the relocation of 16th Avenue, a major arterial connecting Yakima and Union Gap. 

"I'm pleased that we are investing in the Yakima Air Terminal so it can continue to play a strong role in supporting the economy and transportation needs of the Yakima Valley," said Senator Murray.  "This airport is vital to the economy and transportation infrastructure of central Washington, and these funds will help the airport make necessary improvements to improve safety at the airport and on surface roads." 

AIP grants, which are administered by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), provide funding for infrastructure improvements that enhance efficiency and safety at airports.  Murray, the Chair of the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) Appropriations Subcommittee that oversees funding for the FAA, helped secure this funding in the FY07 THUD Appropriations bill.