Peters, Stabenow Announce Over $680,000 for Chippewa County International Airport

WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Senators Gary Peters and Debbie Stabenow today announced that Chippewa County International Airport in Sault Ste. Marie will receive a $689,269 grant from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to fund the construction of replacement runway lighting systems, runway rehabilitation, an approach survey to identify existing obstructions to runway approaches, and an update to the Airports Geographic Information System data.

“Chippewa County International Airport is a critical source for local economic growth, connecting the world to business and tourism opportunities in the Upper Peninsula,” said Senator Peters. “This funding will help ensure safe and reliable air travel for the communities in and around Chippewa County.”

“This investment will make travelling to and from the Upper Peninsula safer and more efficient,” said Senator Stabenow. “Safe and reliable air travel will also help encourage businesses to invest in the region and create jobs.”

“The Chippewa Airport provides a significant benefit to the local community, and this grant will help improve airport infrastructure so we continue providing safe and reliable airport operations for all users of the facility,” said Tami Beseau, Airport Manager, Chippewa County International Airport. “These funds will allow us to make upgrades to runway lighting, and paint and seal  runway cracks, which will enhance the longevity of our infrastructure. Thanks to the federal government for making these dollars available and to Senator Peters and Senator Stabenow for their continued support of our state’s airports.”

More information on the Department of Transportation Grant program can be found at http://www.dot.gov/grants.