FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 29, 2012
Two million dollars was recently awarded as part of a reimbursement grant to the Airport for runway extension projects that will help Guam’s top executives strengthen economic initiatives to build a more robust visitor industry.
“The Airport is the main point of entry for the millions of visitors that keep our main economic engine moving. Our ability to tap into the vastly untouched markets of our Asian neighbors depends on our capacity to not only meet basic requirements, but to build capacity for the future as we compete with emerging visitor markets,” Governor Eddie Baza Calvo said.
The Airport has been highly successful in completing capacity-enhancing projects. Initial financing for the projects are required to be funded solely through the Airport. Funding from the federal government is reimbursed only when requirements and major milestones are met.
“Economic expansion and diversification of our visitor industry will play a significant role in giving the people the opportunity to get better jobs and build futures for their children,” said Senator Frank Blas, Jr. “The Airport is doing such great work, leading by example. We need to continue strengthening our federal relations so all our government agencies have the support they need from the top to get critical projects done.”
The grant, awarded by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration, supports the Airport’s expansion mission as they complete the tenth phase of increasing runway capacity regulations to accommodate larger commercial air carriers. Larger, wider commercial aircraft capable of more long-range travel require the Airport to meet strict FAA rules and regulations for runways, taxiways and facilities.
The Airport has been able to invest about $23 million for expansion projects working collaboratively with the federal government. More projects are on the horizon for the Airport as part of an overall mission to enhance the island’s visitor industry.
Contact Natalie Quinata at 475-9309 or 488-6013 for more information.
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