Oct. 7—ROCHESTER — The next phase of runway improvements at Rochester International Airport will benefit from nearly $15.8 million in federal funds.
The funding is part of nearly $2 billion in Airport Improvement Program grants announced last month by the Federal Aviation Administration.
" Rochester International Airport is an essential link for residents and businesses in Olmsted County and beyond," U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D- Minnesota, said of the federal support. "This federal grant will make needed infrastructure updates to ensure the airport can continue serving travelers for years to come."
The grant will support the construction of 1,647 feet of Runway 31's safety area, while reconstructing 6,450 feet of existing Runway 3/21.
Also supported are plans to construct 2.5 miles of new service road, install 15,000 feet of wildlife perimeter fencing and extend Runway 3/21 an additional 1,647 feet in length to bring the airport into conformity with current standards.
The work is part of the airport's 2021 master plan, which calls for nearly $319.7 million in upgrades throughout a 20-year period, with the expectation of at least $146.8 million being funded by the federal Airport Improvement Program and the state covering nearly $22.7 million of planned work.
When adopted, the plan targeted a nearly $81.7 million budget for the first five years, which included $66.8 million for runway and taxiway improvements that began in 2021.
Other planned near-term improvements include updates to the airport apron, where large planes are parked, and design and reconstruction of the parking lot at the airport's main terminal.
"Small and regional airports like the Rochester International Airport are vital parts of their communities and this funding will go directly towards constructing runways and services to ensure it is safe and functional for travelers," said U.S. Sen. Tina Smith, D- Minnesota.
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