Funds Earmarked For Purchase Of Rescue And Firefighting Vehicle

The Huntington WV, Tri-State Airport (HTS) has been granted $700,000 in federal funding by the Federal Aviation Administration through the Airport Improvement Program (AIP). Airport officials have decided to spend the money on a new airport rescue and firefighting vehicle.

West Virginia Senators Jay Rockefeller and Robert C. Byrd and Congressman Nick Rahall made the announcement on Friday, the State Journal reported.

Rockefeller, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, said, "This is incredibly great news for the Tri-State and the surrounding areas. This airport is an important transportation hub that keeps people connected with our state and the rest of the nation. This money will support priority safety and capacity projects at airports that will improve the efficiency of the National Airspace System."

Byrd, Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Committee, said, "Air travel is an essential component of the transportation network in our state, and the Tri-State Airport is a vital part of that network. These funds will help ensure the safety of those who use the airport and expand opportunities there for the long-term."

Congressman Nick Rahall (D-WV), Vice-Chairman of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, said, "Safe and reliable air transportation is incredibly important to southern West Virginians, and maintaining safety on the ground is essential to maintaining safety in the skies. Modern, up to date safety equipment is important to keep people at the airport safe at all times."

Tri-State Airport's grant was awarded through the Airport Improvement Program (AIP), which provides federal funding for airport planning and development of public-use airports, including improvements related to enhancing airport safety, capacity, security, and environmental concerns.

FMI: www.faa.gov/airports_airtraffic/airports/aip/