Schumer Launches Push To Secure Fed Funding For The Long-Awaited Runway Extension At Ogdensburg Airport -- Longer Runway Will Help New Flights Land & Enable Airport To Begin Low-Fare Airline Service With Allegiant Air, A Key For Regional Job Growth And Increased Tourism

Press Release

U.S. Senator Charles E. Schumer today launched a push to secure major federal funding for the long-awaited runway extension at the Ogdensburg International Airport (OGS). In November 2014, Schumer announced that, following his push, that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) had approved Ogdensburg Airport's request to extend its runway by 1,200 feet. Now, Schumer is pushing the FAA to approve the Ogdensburg Bridge and Port Authority's (OBPA) application for $14.25 million in funding through its Airport Improvement Program (AIP). Schumer said this funding would enable the Ogdensburg Airport to complete its runway extension and begin low-fare airline service with Allegiant Air.

Schumer said this runway expansion is necessary in order for Allegiant Air, which decided in 2014 to offer flights from Ogdensburg, to land its planes. Schumer said that Allegiant Air flies much larger planes than the ones that currently take off and land at Ogdensburg Airport, and these aircraft need a larger runway in order to operate. Schumer said this runway extension project would provide low-fare options for North Country residents, in addition to numerous other economic development benefits for the region.

"Just last year I was able to announce that this much-needed, and long-awaited, runway extension at the Ogdensburg airport is cleared for takeoff by the FAA. Now, I am fighting for the federal funds it needs and deserves to make sure this project can be completed as soon as possible," said Senator Schumer. "This runway expansion will enable Allegiant Air flights, which has bigger planes, to land and provide a major economic boost to the entire area -- which would result in the creation of good-paying construction jobs, more tourist dollars, increased travel options for residents and an improved climate for business."

"Senator Schumer has been a resilient advocate for economic growth and development here in the North County. From securing FAA approval for the runway expansion to now urging for the project's complete funding, he has been a terrific partner throughout this entire process," said OBPA Executive Director Wade Davis. "The Ogdensburg International Airport expansion will undoubtedly result in job creation, increased tourism and an overall promotion of regional transportation capabilities. FAA funding is the next step in ensuring these benefits come to fruition."

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