Kaptur Announces $536,616 Federal Award to Rehabilitate Defiance County Airport InfrastructurePress ReleaseTradeJobs and the Economy

Washington, DC - Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09) announced today that the US Department of Transportation (USDOT), through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), has awarded a $536,616 federal award to support critical infrastructure improvements at Defiance Memorial Airport (DFI).

"Northwest Ohio's infrastructure is the backbone of our regional economy," said Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur (OH-09). "This federal investment in Defiance County ensures that our local airport remains safe, reliable, and ready to serve the needs of residents, businesses, and emergency services. Modernizing local facilities across our region strengthens our community's connectivity and helps lay the foundation for future growth."

This investment will fund the final phase of a multi-part rehabilitation project, including the reconstruction of 240 feet of Taxilane A, 295 feet of Taxilane B, and 3,830 square yards of the airport's East Apron pavement. These upgrades are essential to maintaining safe and efficient operations for pilots, passengers, and local businesses that rely on the airport.

These airport improvements are part of a broader effort to enhance transportation infrastructure across Defiance. From roadway reconstruction and roundabouts to sidewalks and resurfacing projects, these investments collectively represent Millions of dollars dedicated to building a safer, more efficient, and more connected community.

This new investment builds on previous awards to airports across our Northwest Ohio region. In June 2025 Congresswoman Kaptur delivered over $1.4 Million in FAA funding for four Northwest Ohio airports to modernize infrastructure and bolster safety, including $112,646 for the Defiance Memorial Airport to design reconstruction of deteriorating taxi lanes and apron pavement. In July 2025, she announced $342,000 for Fulton County Airport to improve runway conditions. In August 2025, Congresswoman Kaptur announced $300,000 in FAA Funds to Fulton and Williams County Airports. In 2024 she also brought home $400,000 in FAA funds to strengthen aviation upgrades across multiple airports in the district.

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