$76M in Grants Bolster Snow Removal Capability Throughout USA

The FAA has begun preparation for winter weather with the issuance of more than $76.2 million for snow-ready machinery. 

The grants will aid 85 airports in 28 states by providing resources for snowplows, de-icing equipment, and infrastructure to store it. 

Of the $76 million total, $46.2 million will go to snow removal equipment, with big-ticket recipients like Ted Stevens International Airport in Anchorage, Alaska receiving $3.1 million to battle winter weather. De-icing facilities account for $13.6 million, with Atlanta City International Airport of New Jersey obtaining nearly $9.8 million to construct an entire de-icing containment facility. Smaller grants, like that to Williston Basin International Airport of North Dakota, will provide smaller items like their upcoming de-icing pad to the tune of $277,777.

The final $16.4 million will construct and renovate snow removal infrastructure, namely facilities that keep the expensive machinery out of the elements throughout the year. Most grants appear to hover in the range of $1-5 million.

The funding comes from the FAA's Airport Improvement Program, which the administration uses for the construction of new and improved airport facilities, repairs to runways and taxiways, maintenance of airfield elements like lighting or signage, and the purchase of equipment needed to operate and maintain airports.

“We can’t let winter weather stop aircraft from safely landing and taking off,” said Associate Administrator for Airports Shannetta Griffin, P.E. "This funding will help keep airports operating this winter and get passengers and cargo to their work, families and vacations safely." 

FMI: www.faa.gov