HARRISBURG, PA — The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT) has announced a $10 million state investment in projects at five public use airports, aimed at enhancing infrastructure, preserving facilities, and fostering economic growth. This strategic funding aligns with the Shapiro administration’s commitment to maintaining safe and reliable transportation infrastructure while supporting the Commonwealth’s economy.
“Pennsylvania’s aviation industry provides good-paying jobs while linking communities to a larger transportation system that moves goods and people around the world,” said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll. “These investments are another example of Governor Shapiro’s focus on maintaining our infrastructure while also expanding business opportunities.”
The aviation sector is a vital driver of Pennsylvania’s economy, employing over 226,000 people, contributing nearly $12.5 billion in payroll, and generating an annual economic impact of $34 billion. Beyond passenger travel, airports play key roles in air cargo, emergency services, law enforcement, and disaster response.
The investment will fund the following improvement projects:
- Bucks County:
- Quakertown Airport will receive $1.1 million to construct three new hangars.
- Doylestown Airport has been allocated $525,000 for continued hangar rehabilitation, $157,500 for demolition of four structures, and $360,000 to extend public water access to the terminal area.
- Jefferson County:
- DuBois Regional Airport will utilize $225,000 for renovations to its administration building.
- Lehigh County:
- Lehigh Valley International Airport has been assigned $1.5 million to construct a parking structure, supporting terminal commercial development.
- Luzerne County:
- Wilkes-Barre Scranton International Airport will receive $6.2 million to expand the terminal and upgrade the TSA screening area.
The funding is sourced from the state Capital Budget through the Aviation Transportation Assistance Program, which is supported by bonds. These targeted investments are expected to bolster Pennsylvania’s aviation infrastructure, enabling these airports to continue serving as critical hubs for transportation and economic activity statewide.
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