Rep. Panetta Announces Nearly $4 Million in Federal Funding for Paso Robles Airport

Paso Robles, CA - United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) announced $3,895,000 in federal funding to rehabilitate Taxiway A at the Paso Robles Municipal Airport. The federal grant, awarded through the Federal Aviation Administration's (FAA) Airport Improvement Program, will support the rehabilitation of 1,900 feet of existing taxiway pavement and minimize foreign object debris that could interfere with safe airport operations. The funding will support the project's final phase, consisting of construction.

"Paso Robles Municipal Airport is an important transportation hub that supports our local economy, military operations, wildfire suppression and prevention efforts, and regional connectivity," said Rep. Panetta. "This significant federal investment in northern San Luis Obispo County will help preserve the structural integrity of Taxiway A, reduce the risk of debris, and ensure safer and more reliable airport operations. I'll continue working in Congress to ensure that the federal government plays its part by bringing our fair share of resources home and investing directly in the infrastructure that serves our communities."

"Congressman Panetta's $3.9 million investment strengthens our airport's infrastructure and safety, supporting regional economic growth, public safety air operations, emergency response, and our future horizontal launch space port opportunities. We greatly appreciate his continued support of our city," said Paso Robles Mayor John Hamon.

In addition to charter and private use, Paso Robles Municipal Airport serves as an air operations support base for statewide public safety agencies and is the site of a proposed spaceport initiative supported by Rep. Panetta. The City of Paso Robles is making progress toward the FAA Launch Site Operator License, which would allow for spaceport operations to complement the airport operations.

The Airport Improvement Program provides federal grants for airport infrastructure projects, including runways, taxiways, signage, lighting, and markings. These investments strengthen the nation's aviation infrastructure.

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