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Local airports getting funding boosts
The B.C. government today announced it is investing $19.8 million in the latest round of BC Air Access Program (BCAAP) projects, which will support 40 projects at 29 air facilities, including in Fairmont Hot Springs, Creston and Golden.
The funds are for improving safety, security and passenger facilities. Projects include runway extensions, improved runway lighting, pavement improvements, terminal enhancements and better fire protection.
Under BCAAP, airports, heliports and water aerodromes submit proposals to access grants to support infrastructure upgrades.
“The continued expansion of the BC Air Access Program is positive news for the province’s remote, rural and Indigenous communities, as well as for fire suppression, air ambulance, emergency response, tourism and economic development initiatives,” said Heather McCarley, chair of the BC Aviation Council. “We are so pleased to see such progressive, strategic thinking.”
Regional airports receiving funds:
* Fairmont Hot Springs – $64,000 for an airport master plan and washroom facilities.
* Golden – $2 million for airfield pavement rehabilitation.
* Creston Valley – $48,000 for an airport master plan and fuel cardlock system.
“The BC Air Access Program helps communities, especially smaller ones, with important improvements to their aviation facilities,” said Rob Fleming, Minister of Transportation and Infrastructure. “This investment will help move people and goods, improve safety and benefit front-line services, like air ambulance and wildfire fighting, as well as making for more secure access to remote and Indigenous communities.”
B.C. has more than 300 public airports, heliports and water aerodromes, which play a significant role in connecting communities, supporting the economy and keeping people safe.
Lead image: Fairmont Hot Springs Airport. e-KNOW file photo
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