In a significant move to revitalize air travel options in small American communities, the DOT announced the allocation of millions in grants through the Small Community Air Service Development Program. The U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) today announced that it will award $14.8 million from the Small Community Air Service Development Program to help 20 communities in 16 states develop solutions to their local air service needs.
These funds, designated to assist 20 communities across 16 states, come at a crucial time when many airports nationwide have experienced a decline in air services. U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg underscored the importance of these grants, emphasizing their role in supporting regional economies. Buttigieg stated, "Air service to small communities is crucial to regional economies."
The selection process for these grants was highly competitive, with 48 applicants vying for funding, surpassing the $34 million mark. Ultimately, 20 deserving communities emerged as beneficiaries, spanning various states across the nation.
The grants, totaling $14.815 million, are aimed at enhancing connectivity and accessibility in these areas. Notable allocations include $750,000 for Monterey, California, $950,000 for Idaho Falls, Idaho, and $750,000 for Peoria and Springfield in Illinois. Indiana's South Bend and Ft. Wayne will share $1,350,000, and Monroe, Louisiana, will receive $500,000.
Tennessee's Chattanooga and Tri-Cities will benefit from a combined total of $1,650,000, while Del Rio, Texas, secures $1,200,000. Lynchburg and Richmond in Virginia will share $1,600,000, and Yakima, Washington, will receive $700,000. These investments aim to enhance air travel options and promote economic development in these regions, ensuring that small communities have improved access to essential air services.
Dubuque, Iowa, is set to receive a substantial grant of $1.5 million. This funding will contribute to enhancing air travel options for the community and boosting its regional connectivity. Mike Philips, Chair of the Dubuque Regional Airport Commission, stated, "These federal funds will position Dubuque to be more competitive with other national airports when positioning to reinstate and retain daily scheduled air service."
The press release from Dubuque Regional Airport underscores the critical importance of grant funding, particularly in light of the significant decline in air services experienced by airports nationwide over the past four years. Notably, about three-quarters of airports across the United States have faced reductions or complete losses in service during this period. Within the state of Iowa, airports have seen a substantial 26% reduction in service.
