Date:
Wednesday, June 06, 2007
Contact:
Eric Johnson, WSDOT Aviation Construction Project Manager, (360) 651-6303
Jeff Kvamme, WSDOT Aviation Construction Project Manager, (360) 651-6304
Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) Aviation is now accepting applications from airport sponsors for a new round of Local Airport Aid grants. This will be WSDOT's first round of airport grants offered during the 2007-2009 biennium. Airport sponsors must submit applications no later than June 15, 2007.
Each year, WSDOT provides crucial financial assistance to many of the state's 139 public airports through its Local Airport Aid Grant Program. WSDOT accepts applications from any municipality or federally recognized tribe that owns an open, public use airport in Washington State. The maximum amount WSDOT can award to an airport sponsor for a single grant is $250,000.
While the exact budget for this round has yet to be appropriated, WSDOT anticipates that approximately $1 million will be available for eligible airport projects. Since WSDOT places a high priority on pavement maintenance, it targets 65 to 75 percent of grant funds toward pavement projects.
Pending the Governor's approval for the 2007-2009 budget, WSDOT anticipates announcing the grant awards no later than July 6, 2007.
To apply, airport sponsors can use the new and improved online grant application form , which allows applicants to fill in their information electronically. Since a signature is required, sponsors will still have to print, sign and mail the form with supporting documentation. WSDOT will also continue to accept handwritten applications.
In order to expedite the process, WSDOT requests that sponsors include the following with their application:
- Statement of support from appropriate elected official
- Adopted resolution stating matching funds are available and authorized
- Preliminary plans and specifications
- Project schedule
- Property appraisals (land acquisition)
- Detailed estimated costs and spending schedule
- Consultant selection process documentation (for engineering and planning projects)
WSDOT also reminds airport sponsors with existing open grants that the close-out deadline is June 29, 2007. Sponsors should be making significant progress on their projects to meet this deadline.
Airports are encouraged to contact their designated WSDOT Airport Construction Project Manager, Eric Johnson at (360) 651-6303 or Jeff Kvamme at (360) 651-6304 to discuss proposed projects and receive assistance with applications. Find your designated airport contact at: www.wsdot.wa.gov/aviation/NeedGrantAssistance.htm .
More information on the Local Airport Aid Grant Program is available at: www.wsdot.wa.gov/aviation/grants/default.htm .
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