For Immediate Release:

Friday, July 18, 2003

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – U.S. Senator Patty Murray (D-Wash.), ranking Democrat on the Transportation Appropriations Subcommittee, today announced $56,061,000 for construction, security improvements and land acquisition at Sea-Tac Airport. Murray helped secure these funds in the FY 2003 Transportation Appropriations Bill.

“I am pleased to announce this federal funding for SeaTac Airport and the surrounding community,” Senator Murray said. “These funds will help increase efficiency and security at Sea-Tac and will help the airport be a better neighbor to the community.”

The funds come out of the FAA’s Airport Improvement Program.

These grants include:

$33,750,000 Security Enhancements, These funds will support modifications to the baggage screening area to accommodate new explosive detection machines.

$12,050,000 Runway Construction, These funds are designated for construction of SeaTac’s new 3rd runway project.

$5,326,000 Land Acquisition for Noise Compatibility, These funds will assist with land acquisition in the vicinity of the airport to assist with noise mitigation.

$4,935,000 Noise Mitigation Measures, These funds will support sound-proofing and other noise mitigation projects for the Highline school district.