Murray Announces $150,000 Grant for Pangborn Memorial Airport

(Washington, D.C.) – Today, U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-WA) announced a total of over $8.3 million in federal support for critical airport improvement projects across Washington state, including a $150,000 grant for Pangborn Memorial Airport in East Wenatchee.   



Pangborn Memorial Airport will use this grant – provided through the Airport Improvement Program (AIP) – to conduct a study regarding the extension of runway 12/30.  This study will also be used to analyze land use issues near and adjacent to the airport.   



"I’m pleased that we are investing in Pangborn Memorial Airport so it can continue to play a strong role in supporting the economy and transportation needs of North Central Washington," said Senator Murray.  "The Wenatchee Valley is experiencing tremendous economic growth in industries that rely on air travel, and I am pleased to help support this vital community need." 



AIP grants, which are administered by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), provide funding for infrastructure improvements that enhance efficiency and safety at airports.  Murray, the Chair of the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) Appropriations Subcommittee that oversees funding for the FAA, helped secure this funding in the FY07 THUD Appropriations bill. 



Senator Murray has been a strong advocate for infrastructure improvements at Pangborn.  In FY03 she secured a $1.5 million appropriation for the installation of an advanced instrument landing system.  That system became operational in 2006, improving the safety and efficiency of the airport.