Ontario International Airport (ONT) will receive federal grants totaling more than $11.8 million for important infrastructure repairs, airport officials have been informed.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) grants are being made through the agency’s Airport Improvement Program, which supports U.S. airports in upgrading and modernizing their infrastructure. They include:
o $8.7 million to repair ramp aprons currently used by cargo aircraft.
o $2.6 million to build a taxiway.
o $314,000 for taxiway repairs.
o $204,000 to install runway lighting.
“We are grateful to our Congressional delegation, U.S Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao and the FAA leadership for their support and confidence in helping secure these critically needed airport improvement funds,” said Alan D. Wapner, president of the Ontario International Airport Authority. “The grant funds are a vital component of our efforts to update ONT’s infrastructure, enhance the airport’s competitiveness and attract economic development to the region. Our customers count on us to keep ONT’s facilities in top condition and this grant will help to meet their expectations.”
Congressional leaders welcomed the news:
“Expanding Ontario International Airport has been one of my highest priorities. Since ownership of the airport was returned to local control in 2015, it has proven to be a growing social and economic hub for our region. In the last year alone, traffic at the airport has grown by 10 percent, including 24 percent for international passengers,” said U.S. Rep. Norma J. Torres (CA-35). “By investing in infrastructure improvements, this FAA grant will help ensure that the airport can continue to grow, create and support well-paying jobs, and boost the economy across the Inland Empire.”
“The $8.7 million FAA grant funding is great news for Ontario International Airport and our region,” said U.S. Rep. Ken Calvert (CA-42). “These vital resources will allow the airport to improve its infrastructure and boost the economic competitiveness of the cargo operations. I want to thank Transportation Secretary Elaine Chao and everyone at FAA for their support of Ontario International Airport.”
“The leadership of Ontario International Airport has been steadily improving the airport’s infrastructure since it reverted back to local control. This grant will help the airport build on that progress and continue to serve as a vital hub for cargo traffic in and out of the Inland Empire,” said Sen. Dianne Feinstein.