FAA Money Approved For Runway Improvements

When Washington scrambled to fund public works and construction in the name of economic stimulus, among the special interests which lined up at the trough was airports. The argument was compelling -- many airports have expansion plans in place, ready to go as soon as funding is available.

In current Washington vernacular, such a project is called "shovel-ready." In other words, as soon as the check is written, the work can begin.

Other airports aren't quite there, but a few are scrambling to be ready. The Wichita Falls Times Record News reports the Wichita Falls Municipal Airport (SPS) in north Texas will get a $371,000 FAA grant, to pay for design and engineering for improvements to a runway the city plans to lease from Sheppard Air Force Base.

The plans will include options to spend $5 million for an asphalt repaving, or $20 million for complete reconstruction with concrete... accommodating whatever level of funding become available. The city will then lease the runway, and some other facilities, from the Air Force for about $33,000 per year.

The Texas Department of Transportation estimates the federal stimulus plan will include up to $1.1 billion for airport projects.

FMI: www.cwftx.net/index.asp?nid=703