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Thompson Announces $186,000 Federal Grant for Bradford Regional Airport Authority

August 8, 2018

Grant will purchase safety equipment, remove runway obstructions

BELLEFONTE, Pa. – U.S. Representative Glenn ‘GT' Thompson today announced a federal grant that will help the Bradford Regional Airport (BRA) make safety equipment upgrades and remove obstructions from the runway.

The U.S. Department of Transportation awarded $186,423 to the Bradford Regional Airport Authority for the safety initiatives.

"This grant will allow Bradford Regional to purchase new personal protective equipment that is in line with the latest safety standards," Rep. Thompson said. "The funding will also make sure the runways are free from obstruction and clear for travel. Bradford Regional is an economic hub in McKean County. We must always work to provide the highest level of safety for airport employees and the traveling public alike."

"The award of these funds allows us to provide our certified Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting staff to be equipped and ready to address any emergency situations that might arise," Airport Manager Alicia Dankesreiter said. "These ARFF suits keep everyone safe which is our top priority. The remaining funding will be utilized to continue ensuring that all trees and other obstructions remain clear of the airport's runways and approaches. Obstruction removal is often an ongoing project to maintain a safe airport. We remain grateful for Congressman Thompsons continued support of not only the Bradford Regional Airport but of rural aviation as a whole."

ABOUT THE FUNDING

This project removes 31 acres of tree obstructions from the Runway 14/32 approach surfaces.

This grant funds the first phase which consists of obstruction removal from the Runway 32 end.

This project acquires five sets of replacement personal protective equipment to assist the airport in meeting safety requirements.