|
|
 |
|
|
|
Senator Bruno spoke with reporters outside the Capitol Building on Wednesday. |
Wednesday, October 19, 2005
Senate Majority Leader Joseph L. Bruno announced today the awarding of a $1.5 million grant to the Albany County Airport Authority for the construction of a new state-of-the-art aircraft maintenance center. The Airport hopes to begin construction of the facility during the upcoming spring construction season with completion scheduled for late 2006.
"The investments the State has made in Albany International Airport have paid off in terms of more passengers, more flights, more business, more jobs and, most importantly, lower airfares," Senator Bruno said. "This new investment will help the Airport attract new aircraft and airline-related businesses, create new jobs and make the Albany International Airport even stronger."
The Airport Authority recently embarked on an economic development program and has identified over 50 acres of Airport property for development. The Albany International Airport provides a strategic location within the northeast for aircraft companies that are scoping locations for new maintenance hubs to service business and commercial aircraft.
The Airport Authority continues to have meaningful discussions with aircraft manufacturers and maintenance facilities including Eclipse Aviation of Albuquerque, New Mexico. Eclipse Aviation is in the process of selecting sites throughout the country for maintenance facilities for newly designed jet aircraft expected to go into production next spring.
"The Authority Board is forever grateful to Senator Bruno whose continued support and assistance has been instrumental in the construction and success of the new Airport," said Rev. Michael A. Farano, chairman of the Albany County Airport Authority." "Senator Bruno�s additional support will now enable the Airport to achieve a new level of service, growth and job creation."
Senator Bruno has provided nearly $50 million to the Airport for construction of the new terminal and parking garage. In addition, Senator Bruno provided $6 million for the construction of a terminal addition that was key to attracting Southwest Airlines. Since the arrival of Southwest Airlines in 2000, Airport enplanements have increased from 1.1 million to over 1.5 million passengers a year while average air fares have declined by 33%.
[BIOGRAPHY] [DISTRICT MAP] [PHOTO GALLERY] [LEGISLATION] [CONSTITUENT SERVICES] [YOUR OPINION COUNTS] [GUESTBOOK] [PRIVACY POLICY] [SENATE INSIDER] [CONTACT INFO] [HOME/NEWS]