Jul. 25—The Federal Aviation Administration is providing $16.1 million for upgrades at District 2 airports like the Humboldt County airport near McKinleyville.
Rep. Jared Huffman announced on Monday that the funding package includes more than $13 million will repave and stabilize the runway at the Humboldt County airport, which hasn't been done since the early 1990s. The project will give the runway another 10 to 20 years of life and the ability to better handle the larger aircrafts that now serve the airport.
"We really want to thank Congressman Jared Huffman for the continued support he provides for us on the North Coast," 4th District Supervisor Virginia Bass said in a statement. "Receiving over $13 million in Federal Aviation Administration funds would not have been possible without his ongoing partnership. These projects will have an impact on so many residents and visitors in our region for years to come."
Two inches of asphalt are set to be removed from the main runway and replaced with 6 inches of fresh asphalt. Outdated lighting and electrical infrastructure will also be upgraded with construction set to begin in spring 2023.
Also funded are wildlife hazard assessment and management plans and electrical systems studies for Murray Field Airport outside Eureka and Rohnerville Airport outside Fortuna.
"These airports are vital parts of our region that have been long overdue for funding to better serve the folks who rely on them. Investments in a lifeline airport like ACV are essential for the safety of the travelling public and to the economies of rural areas," Huffman, who serves on the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, said in a statement. "We need to maintain and improve this infrastructure regularly to meet the increasing demands. I'm glad to have delivered this funding, which will help fuel our local economy and boost safety, commerce, and tourism in air travel."
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