Aviation Grant to Benefit Burbank, Long Beach Airports

Sixteen California airports, including the Hollywood-Burbank and Long Beach airports, are set to benefit from federal grants aimed at modernizing the facilities, officials announced Thursday.

U.S. senators Alex Padilla and Adam Schiff, both D-California, announced a total of $107 million in Federal Aviation Administration grants will support airport infrastructure, improve safety and strengthen the state’s aviation system.

FAA’s Airport Improvement Program provides dollars for airports, and to support various infrastructure projects such as runway and taxiway rehabilitation, lighting and signage upgrades, as well as noise mitigation, and other critical improvements.

The Hollywood-Burbank Bob Hope Airport will receive a $2.7 million for the removal of an existing terminal and parking structure, which the FAA has identified as hazards. Long Beach Airport will receive $15 million for the reconstruction of 4,200 feet of existing paved Taxiway F pavement, which has been worn down over the years.

“Millions of travelers across the country and globe rely on California airports for safe and efficient travel, commerce and tourism,” Padilla said in a statement. “These investments are critical to support and modernize critical airport infrastructure, enhance safety for passengers and support our state’s economy.”

Schiff added, “These major investments will create more jobs in communities across the Golden State, strengthen our transportation system and boost our local economies.”