Washington -- U.S. Senators Mike Enzi, John Barrasso and Representative Barbara Cubin, all R-Wyo, announced that Wyoming travelers will soon be able to enjoy airport upgrades with new plans set to take off improving several airports throughout the state.

            The Wyoming Congressional Delegation said five Wyoming airports will be receiving grant money from the Department of Transportation totaling more than $3.5 million. The funds will be used for projects such as improving runways and service aprons, conduct and updating airport cargo and master plans, revamping existing pavement and updating pavement markings and signs, acquiring aircraft rescue and fire fighting vehicles, and purchasing a fuel storage tank and automated fuel dispensing system.

            “Wyoming residents should sit back, relax and enjoy upgrades to their local airports. With the summer tourist season just around the corner this money will help airports continue to provide much needed services to locals and visitors,” said Enzi.

            “Our state’s airports are a critical link to our growing economy,” Barrasso said. “These grants will go a long way in improving safety and preparing for future growth. This is a great day for the more than 100,000 people served by the airports in these five cities.”

            “These grants help our airports handle the increased traffic that Wyoming’s booming economy demands. Improving our airports’ infrastructure and efficiency greatly benefits the entire state, not just those who fly. Great airports mean more business and industry for all of Wyoming,” stated Cubin.

Pinedale - Ralph Wenz Field Airport - $111,240 to update the airport master plan to identify future needs

Casper - Natrona County International Airport - $150,000 to conduct an airport cargo master plan to help with current and future cargo operations

Casper - Natrona County International Airport - $732,756 to acquire an aircraft rescue and fire fighting vehicle for airport safety

Gillette - Campbell County Airport - $954,266 to rehabilitate pavement markings and signs

Riverton - Riverton Regional Airport - $1,483,211 to rehabilitate the commercial service apron by extending the life of the existing pavement

Pine Bluffs - Pine Bluffs Municipal Airport - $111,240 to install a fuel storage tank and automated fuel dispensing system

            For more information about the grants please contact Craig Sparks in the Department of Transportation Regional office at 303-342-1254.