Mikulski, Cardin, Hoyer Announce More Than $2.7 Million for Maryland Airport at Indian Head

September 17, 2012

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Barbara A. Mikulski and Ben Cardin along with Congressman Steny Hoyer (all D-MD) today announced the U.S Department of Transportation (DOT) has awarded a $2,795,664 federal grant to Maryland Airport for phase three of runway and taxiway expansion at the Airport in Indian Head.  

"Our regional airports play a key role in maintaining Maryland's robust economy," said Senator Mikulski, a senior member of the Appropriations Committee which funds DOT. "These funds in the federal checkbook for runway and taxiway expansion will help Maryland Airport operate safely and efficiently while keeping Marylanders on the go."  

"The Airport at Indian Head provides an important economic and travel hub for residents and businesses in Southern Maryland," stated Senator Cardin. "This DoT grant will provide jobs for Marylanders and  important resources to expand and upgrade the airport's runways, which will help ensure the safety of  passengers and airport workers. "  

"Congratulations to Maryland Airport on receiving this grant, which will support expansion of a runway and taxiway, improve the safety of the airport, and boost our economic competitiveness in Charles County," stated Congressman Hoyer. "Making strategic investments in our infrastructure helps support the flow of local commerce and spurs economic growth and job creation in our communities. That's why I have made investments in infrastructure a key component of the Make It In America plan, a jobs initiative I'm leading in Congress. By improving our infrastructure, we can attract new businesses to Maryland and help put more people back to work in well-paying jobs. I thank the Department of Transportation for recognizing this important investment in our community, and will continue to fight for additional funding so Maryland businesses and families can Make It In America."  

Phase three of the expansion at Maryland Airport will include grading and paving of the runway and taxiway, as well as grading to prepare for phase four of the expansion. Phase four, which is expected to be completed in 2014, includes completion of the taxiways, an apron with parking for 70 aircraft, and final grading. The new runway will be 4300 feet long with the potential to extend to 5000 feet. This project has been in progress for well over a decade, beginning in 1993. Once completed, it will improve the safety of the airport and the surrounding community by moving approach and departure routes away from the schools and other developed areas.