Friday, March 12, 2004
Contact: Bill Mosley, (202) 366-4570
DOT 28-04

U.S. Transportation Secretary Mineta Announces
$10.1 Million in Grants to Expand Capacity
At Orlando International Airport

U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Y. Mineta today announced $10.1 million in final payment of the federal share for the new runway and taxiways that expanded capacity at Orlando International Airport, an action that will provide economic benefits for the area.

“Transportation moves the American economy, and we are doing everything we can to increase the capacity of our nation’s aviation system,” Secretary Mineta said. “These grants help bring more travelers to Orlando, stimulating the local economy and putting more residents to work.”

Today’s announcement includes $8.1 million in reimbursements for the construction of Runway 17L/35R and associated taxiway. This is the fifth grant for the runway, part of a total commitment of $73.7 million in federal support for the project. The new runway, which opened last December, gives Orlando a fourth parallel runway, increasing the airport’s capacity during inclement weather.

The remaining $2 million will reimburse the airport for the completed construction of a north crossfield taxiway. This is the seventh grant awarded for this project, part of a $37.4 million federal commitment.

The funds come from the Airport Improvement Program of the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration.

Briefing Room