Fund earmarked for Felts Field apron

SPOKANE VALLEY – Felts Field is getting a funding boost to upgrade the local airstrip.

Two federal grants will help fund $737,000 in apron improvements.

One grant is for $587,000 and the other is for $150,000.

The grants were among $190,000-plus in airport funding earmarked for 37 airports in Washington state last week. In addition, the state is receiving a $1 million planning grant to help with airport improvements.

The money came from the Federal Aviation Administration’s three primary airport grant programs: Airport Infrastructure Grants, Airport Terminal Program, which are funded through the BIL, and the Airport Improvement Program.

“This year, 37 airports across the state of Washington received a total of nearly $200 million in federal funding to add capacity for more flights, modernize aging facilities, and improve the overall experience of travelers coming in and out of our state,” Sen. Maria Cantwell said of the funds. “The benefits of these investments can also be felt far beyond our airports – stronger air service translates to economic growth, high-paying jobs, and increased connectivity between our rural and urban communities. 

“From funding new terminal projects in Spokane and Pullman to improving security wait times at Sea-Tac, federal airport grants are delivering results in every region across the state and will continue to pay dividends for Washington’s economy for generations to come.”

A total of $73,527,247 has been earmarked for Eastern Washington airports; Central Washington facilities will receive another $18,890,647. 

In addition to the Felts Field funds, Spokane International Airport will receive $53,736,794 for apron expansion, terminal renovations, gate improvements and  more.

Another $8,410,206 is earmarked for Pullman/Moscow Regional Airport to expand its terminal.

Other nearby airports receiving funds include Colville Municipal Airport, $330,000; Port of Whitman Business Air Center, $308,934; Odessa Municipal Airport, $300,000 for apron construction; and Grand Coulee Dam Airport, $243,000 for a runway guidance system.