MASSENA – The airport in Massena is the beneficiary of $458,937 in federal funding for several runway and taxiway lighting systems.

The funds, announced by U.S. Senators Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand and coming from the Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Agency, will go toward replacing runway and taxiway lights, landing guidance indicators, and runway end indicator lights at Massena International Airport -Richards Field, east of the village.

“This federal funding will allow the Massena International-Richards Field Airport to finish critical renovations to their runways, specifically their lighting and visual guidance systems,” said Schumer. “Making these crucial infrastructure upgrades will better ensure all of the passengers and pilots traveling in and out of the North Country each day have a safe and convenient trip.”

“This funding will help advance runway renovations at the Massena International-Richards Field Airport,” said Gillibrand. “Investing in our airport’s infrastructure enables safer, more efficient service for the businesses and travelers who utilize it every day. I will continue to push for resources that enhance efficiency and public safety that New Yorkers can rely on.”

“On behalf of the Town of Massena and the Town Council, I would like to express our appreciation for this federal assistance. Without the funding, we would not be able to further modernize our airport,” said Massena Town Supervisor Joseph Gray.

The town board has approved a bid of $389,868 from Baseline King, Inc. for part of the work. That bid was the only one received by the town.

The funding, through the DOT’s Airport Improvement Program (AIP), is drawn from the Airport and Airway Trust fund, which is supported by user fees, fuel taxes, and other similar revenue sources, according to the press release from the senators.