Oregon Airports to Receive Nearly $19 Million in Federal Investment

Washington, D.C. - U.S. Senators Jeff Merkley and Ron Wyden, as well as U.S. Representatives Suzanne Bonamici (OR-01), Maxine Dexter (OR-03), and Janelle Bynum (OR-05), announced that eight Oregon airports will receive a combined federal investment of nearly $19 million to improve their infrastructure, including over $13 million going to Portland International Airport (PDX) for runway and taxiway pavement improvements.

"Whether flying for recreation or business, Oregonians' access to safe, reliable air travel is vital to driving Oregon's economy forward, growing local tourism, and providing essential lifelines during emergencies," said Merkley. "Investing in critical airport improvements-such as runways, weather observation, and safety systems-will allow these hubs to continue to support small businesses, local communities, and Oregon's economy for years to come."

"Communities across Oregon rely on their local airports to support their economies, respond to natural disasters and stay connected," Wyden said. "I applaud these federal investments that will keep Oregonians safe, and I will continue to fight for more resources that strengthen airport infrastructure across the state."

"Investing in regional airports keeps Oregonians connected, including in rural communities like Tillamook County," said Bonamici. "These critical infrastructure improvements will help small businesses access markets, increase resilience during disaster events, and improve the experience for passengers. I'm glad we are able to deliver these investments in Oregon."

"Federal investments in our airports mean safer travel, stronger local economies, and better emergency response capabilities for communities across Oregon," said Dexter. "From modernizing runways and taxiways at PDX to improving weather and safety systems in rural communities, these upgrades will help keep Oregonians connected and ensure our infrastructure can meet the demands of the future."

"Oregon is open for business," said Bynum. "$19 million for our airports is about making sure our first impression sticks the landing to attract repeat customers to our state."

The awards totaling nearly $19 million from the federal Department of Transportation for the Oregon airports are as follows:

• $13,192,585 for Portland International Airport (PDX) to rehabilitate 9,830 feet of existing paved runway, reconstruct 200 feet of existing paved connector taxiways, construct a new 200-foot connector taxiway, and rehabilitation 1,425 feet of the existing asphalt taxiway.
• $4,455,343 for Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport to rehabilitate 20,700 square yards of existing apron pavement and reconstruct 7,100 square yards of the existing apron pavement.
• $552,506 for Troutdale Airport to reseal 13,000 feet of existing taxiways and joints.
• $150,000 for Tillamook Airport for construction of a new fuel farm by adding two fuel tanks and two self-service pumps and associated apron pavement for a new fuel type.
• $150,000 for Crater Lake-Klamath Regional Airport to support rehabilitating 9,888 square yards of existing apron pavement.
• $144,000 for Independence State Airport to install a precision approach path indicator system for a runway.
• $115,600 for Grant County Regional Airport to construct a new helipad.
• $102,769 for Madras Municipal Airport to replace the existing Automated Weather Observing System.

"I appreciate the Oregon delegation's commitment to keeping our infrastructure ready for all scenarios, whether that's severe weather or increased capacity," said Curtis Robinhold, Executive Director of the Port of Portland. "We're eager to put this funding to work to upgrade PDX's North Runway, including its lighting and navigation systems, and sustain our track record of safe and efficient airport operations."

"The Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport is appreciative of the grant award. These funds will allow us to rehabilitate and/or reconstruct the asphalt portion of a large General Aviation (GA) apron immediately adjacent to MillionAir, one of our Fixed Base Operators (FBOs), as well as Mercy Flights, our local emergency air-ambulance provider," said Amber Judd, Airport Director for Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport. "This asphalt is nearing the end of its useful life, and this project will ensure continued, improved access to and from these important airport businesses for many years to come."

"The Port of Tillamook Bay is grateful for the funding assistance for our Airport Fuel System Upgrade. Our fuel system is outdated and is becoming inefficient," said Michele Bradley, General Manager Port of Tillamook Bay/Tillamook Municipal Airport. "This upgrade will keep the airport sustainable and contributes to the economic viability of the Tillamook Coast."

"We are honored that Madras Municipal Airport has been awarded a federal grant through the Department of Transportation, which will allow us to make critical improvements to our airport's weather system infrastructure. The funding will provide for the design phase of the Automated Weather Observation System (AWOS) replacement," said Lorraine Martinelli, Airport Manager for Madras Municipal Airport. "The AWOS is heavily relied on for the safety of our pilots and crews. These funds will enhance safety, ensuring our facility continues to meet the needs of our growing community and the region we serve. Our current system has served us well, but the components are no longer serviceable, and the system is nearing the end of its service life. Next year we will apply for grant funding to cover the construction and replacement of the AWOS system. Our community is appreciative of the funds made available to maintain our airport's function and safety."