DOT 44-04
Contact: Bill Mosley
Tel.: (202) 366-4570
Wednesday, March 31, 2004

U.S. Transportation Secretary Mineta Announces
$37.5 Million in Grants to Expand Capacity, Enhance Safety
At California Airports

U.S. Transportation Secretary Norman Y. Mineta today announced $37.5 million in grants to expand capacity and enhance safety at airports in California, an action that will provide economic benefits throughout the state. The grants will go to airports in Long Beach, Los Angeles, Ontario, San Bernardino and San Diego.

“These funds will mean more travelers, better connections and safer flying throughout California,” said Secretary Mineta. “Tomorrow’s prosperity lies with our ability to move the American economy today.”

San Bernardino International Airport was awarded a grant of $9.9 million to rehabilitate a runway, while Long Beach’s Daugherty Field will receive $9.1 million to rehabilitate a runway and terminal building, enhance security, and acquire an aircraft rescue and fire fighting vehicle.

An $8 million grant to San Diego International Airport will enable officials there to reduce the impact of noise on surrounding communities. Ontario International Airport will receive $5.5 million for acquisition of land to reduce noise impacts. Los Angeles International Airport will receive grants totaling $5 million, also to reduce noise impacts from the airport.

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

Briefing Room