Two CNY airports receiving federal dollars for projects

ALBANY, N.Y. (AP) — Two Central New York airports are receiving funding for projects as part of a $17 million federal contribution to upgrade airports in upstate New York.

The Syracuse Regional Airport Authority is receiving $1,260,000 dollars for the Syracuse Hancock Airport, which will be used to replace the passenger boarding bridge at Gate 20, according to Executive Director Christina Callahan.

Oneida County is getting $256,581, which will be used to design the first phase of a multi-phase rehabilitation of Griffiss International Airport’s runway.

“We thank the FAA for this grant opportunity,” said Oneida County Commissioner of Aviation Russell Stark. “We also would like to thank our elected leadership from the local, state and federal levels for their tremendous support for the continued growth and improvements at Griffiss International Airport. This grant, for the design of the first phase of our runway construction project, is an indication to our tenants and the flying community that their safety is always a leading priority during project selection.”

The money is being allocated through the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Improvement Program. It will be used for renovations and improvements in 36 projects at facilities in the Hudson Valley, Albany area, Southern Tier and central, western and northern New York.

The funding was announced Wednesday by U.S. Sens. Kirsten Gillibrand and Charles Schumer, both Democrats.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.