September 14, 2026
FROM SENATOR’S SCHUMER AND GILLIBRAND: U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer and U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand today announced they are delivering $33,720,260 in new federal funding to upgrade airport facilities and equipment at Upstate New York airports. This federal funding was awarded through the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)’s Airport Improvement Program (AIP). These grants will fund infrastructure projects, including ones that enhance airfield safety, modernize and upgrade taxiways, and prepare New York airports for winter. “Keeping our airports in top-notch shape is crucial to attracting business and tourism to Upstate New York. With winter approaching, it is more important than ever to ensure our airports are prepared for whatever winter storms come our way. I’m proud to deliver more than $33 million in federal funding to help our airports, from Elmira to Syracuse, invest in key safety upgrades and modernization efforts,” said Senator Schumer. “The Bipartisan Infrastructure and Jobs Law is continuing to help improvements at New York’s airports take off. I’ll always continue to fight to deliver federal resources to help our local economies reach new heights.”
“I am proud to announce more than $33 million in federal funding to improve airports across New York State,” said Senator Gillibrand, ranking member of the Senate Appropriations Transportation Subcommittee. “From expanded deicing pads that keep flights running safely during winter storms to essential snow removal equipment and runway upgrades, this new round of FY26 AIP grants will modernize airport infrastructure in communities statewide, enhancing reliability and travel efficiency for hundreds of thousands of New Yorkers. I will always fight to bring home the funding that our airports need to ensure safety and operate at the highest standard.”
The Elmira/Corning Regional Airport is getting $11,080,483. This grant funds phase 2, which consists of the construction of 3,250 feet. This project reconstructs 8,000 feet of existing Runway 6/24 lighting that has reached the end of its useful life. This grant funds phase 2, which consists of construction of 3,250 feet. This project rehabilitates 8,000 feet of existing paved Runway 6/24 to maintain the structural integrity and minimize foreign object debris to extend its useful life.
The Wellsville Airport is getting $1,619,172. This project rehabilitates 5,700 feet of existing paved Taxiway A to maintain the structural integrity of the pavement and to minimize foreign object debris to extend its useful life. This grant funds the final phase, which consists of construction.
