Collier County Airports receive grants for improvements

Posted 9/20/20

Two of Collier County’s three airports have received new grants for improvements.

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Collier County Airports receive grants for improvements

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COLLIER COUNTY – Two of Collier County’s three airports have received new grants for improvements.

Everglades Airpark (X01) received a Federal Aviation Administration Airport Improvement Program (FAA AIP) grant for nearly $300,000 for the design of the rehabilitation and widening of Runway 15/33. Usually this type of grant requires a 10 percent match of local funds. Fortunately, the FAA is providing one hundred percent funding under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, which included $10 billion in economic relief for eligible U.S. airports affected by the prevention of, preparation for, and response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Due to this additional funding, match requirements have been waived.

Immokalee Regional (IMM) has received a FAA AIP grant for more than $1.7 million for the construction of Taxiway C extension. A 10 percent match requirement of $191,975 is needed and the Board of County Commissioners (BCC) yesterday approved a transfer of funds to cover that cost. The Florida Department of Transportation may provide 50 percent of that required match which could mean the county’s project cost will reduce to $95,987.

The X01 grant will allow for a vital pavement restoration of Runway 15-33, which has not seen any improvements since the 1960’s. It will also enhance safety by widening the runway in accordance with modern FAA standards, while also elevating the pavement to mitigate against regular tidal flooding. At IMM, the extension of Taxiway C will also increase airport safety, as this will create a direct connection between the airport’s terminal and primary Runway 9-27, eliminating the need to cross the active crosswind Runway 18-36 twice. Additionally, extending Taxiway C will provide a 20 percent reduction in taxi time between the terminal facilities and the runway.

“Both projects are essential to the implementation of our airports’ master plans, as they increase safety, efficiency and usability of our facilities—projects that would not be possible without the support of our partners in the Federal Aviation Administration,” said Airport Authority Executive Manager Justin Lobb.

Both X01 and IMM are in Commissioner Bill McDaniel’s Commission District, which is District 5. Commissioner McDaniel said, “Infrastructure is the key to success for our community. All of Collier County residents benefit when our government provides improvements to our infrastructure.”

As Florida recovers from the COVID-19 Pandemic, the Collier County Airport Authority (CCAA) continues to take steps to ensure the highest possible level of safety for our customers, business partners and employees. For those visiting our terminal buildings, Marco Island Executive Airport (MKY), IMM, and X01 we ask that you maintain social distancing and follow all Centers for Disease Control guidelines and recommendations aimed at limiting the spread of COVID-19. CCAA Administrative Offices will allow guests by appointment only though we continue to encourage customers to conduct as much business as possible over the phone or via email.

For more information contact Collier County Airports Manager Justin Lobb at 239-642-7878.

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