Federal Funding For Important Infrastructure Upgrade

Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport Runway Rehabilitation Gets $65 Million Boost

Federal Funding for Important Infrastructure Upgrade

The Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport is set to receive a significant infrastructure upgrade thanks to a nearly $65 million boost from the U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The funding will be used to rehabilitate the airport's runway, ensuring the safety and efficiency of air travel to and from the popular tourist destination.

Details of the Funding

The FAA grant is divided into two parts: a $50 million grant for the runway rehabilitation project and a $14.7 million grant for planning and design work related to the project. The rehabilitation work will involve resurfacing the runway, improving drainage, and installing new lighting systems. The planning and design grant will help ensure that the project is completed efficiently and effectively.

The runway rehabilitation project is expected to begin in 2025 and be completed by 2027. During this time, the airport will remain open, but passengers may experience some delays and disruptions. The FAA and the airport are working closely to minimize the impact of the project on air travel.

The funding for the Kona airport runway rehabilitation project is part of the FAA's Airport Improvement Program (AIP). The AIP provides funding for a variety of airport infrastructure projects, including runway construction, rehabilitation, and maintenance. The program is essential for ensuring the safety and efficiency of the nation's air transportation system.