In Call to FAA Administrator, Casey Calls on Agency to Prioritize Runway Improvements in Northwestern PA
Delays in $82 Million Project Caused By Sequester Could Negatively Impact Region’s Economy, Jobs
Washington DC- Today, U.S. Senator Bob Casey (D-PA) urged on the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to prioritize completion of the final phase of runway improvements at Erie International Airport (ERI). Casey spoke with FAA Administrator Michael Huerta and urged him to work with local officials to release the remaining $4.6 million in funds. The airport is in the midst of a major runway improvement but is waiting for the timely release of federal funds to finish the work. The Erie Regional Airport Authority has completed all the necessary federal requirements, yet is still awaiting funds that could spur the region’s economy and support job creation. The sequester has caused some of the delay in releasing these funds.
“The FAA should immediately prioritize ERI’s runway project to bolster the airport, create jobs and support the region’s economy,” said Senator Casey. “The Erie Regional Airport Authority has taken all the appropriate steps to complete this project and its incumbent on the federal government to live up to its requirements.”
This project has long been considered the top economic development project in northwest Pennsylvania. In November 2007, County of Erie elected officials agreed to provide over $21.5 million to fund the local share of this $82 million project. The FAA informed these officials that the project would be scheduled for completion in 2013.
Beyond today’s call, Senator Casey also sent a letter on this subject in June. The letter can be seen below:
The Honorable Michael Huerta
Administrator
Federal Aviation Administration
800 Independence Avenue, SW
Washington, DC 20591
Dear Administrator Huerta,
I write today to urge you to prioritize the allocation of Airport Improvement Program (AIP) discretionary funds for the final phase of runway improvements at Erie International Airport (ERI). Once completed, this project will enhance safety and improve air service in the northwest region of Pennsylvania.
I have been informed that the Erie Regional Airport Authority has successfully completed all required prerequisite work to allow the FAA to offer a grant. As it stands, the Authority’s contractor is ready to start the final phase of construction but is unable to proceed without the remaining AIP funding. Continued delay would result in suspension of the contract and, in turn, create significant financial costs for the Authority.
This project has long been considered one of the top economic development projects in northwest Pennsylvania. In November 2007, Erie County officials agreed to provide at least $21.5 million over several years to fund the local share of this $82 million project. My office has been advised that at that time the FAA informed these officials that the project would be scheduled for completion in 2013. It is my understanding that as additional funds become available through the AIP program, it is within the discretion of your office to determine how those resources are dispersed. As appropriate, I respectfully request you prioritize fulfilling the federal government’s commitment to fund this project.
Thank you for your attention to this matter. I stand ready to assist you to resolve this issue so that the Erie International Airport can complete its runway extension.
Sincerely,
Robert P. Casey, Jr.
United States Senator
