Columbia Mountain Times™: WSDOT accepting applications for new round of airport grants

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Subject: WSDOT accepting applications for new round of airport grants
Date: Fri, 24 May 2013 14:11:35 -0500
To: guyperea@live.com
From: wsdot@service.govdelivery.com

WSDOT accepting applications for new round of airport grants

WSDOT accepting applications for new round of airport grants

The Washington State Department of Transportation is now accepting applications for the first round of 2013-2015 airport grants. During this round, WSDOT anticipates awarding an unprecedented $2 million in grants, which is about a $1 million increase over typical rounds.

"More funding gives us the opportunity to target some very important needs at our state's airports," said Tristan Atkins, WSDOT director of aviation. "This is good news for our transportation system and economy."

To apply, airport sponsors can fill out the online application. Airport Aid Grant Assurances are now required to be submitted with the application package.

Applications are due no later than 5 p.m. June 21. Qualifying projects should be targeted for completion over the next 12 to 24 months. Eligible projects may include work beginning after July 1, 2013.

WSDOT will announce grant award recipients the week of July 15, 2013.

Gov. Jay Inslee's recently-signed transportation budget provided a one-time, $1.5 million increase to WSDOT's Airport Aid Grant Program for the next biennium. The increase includes existing funds in the state's aeronautics account, which come from aviation fuel fees and a portion of the state aircraft registration fee/excise taxes.

The next grant cycle will begin in June 2014 with an anticipated $1.5 million available.

Airport sponsors can use the recently updated WSDOT Airport Aid Grant Procedures Manual. The update incorporates the new state grant assurances and provides links to online resources, a project schedule, a revised grant application and templates.

Learn more about the Airport Aid Grant Program.