Senators Carper, Coons, Rep. Carney announce $5 million grant to expand Delaware Airpark

CHESWOLD, Del. – On Monday, U.S. Senators Tom Carper, Chris Coons and Rep. John Carney joined by Delaware State University President Dr. Harry Williams, Delaware River and Bay Authority Executive Director Scott Green, and students from DSU’s aviation program to announce a $5 million dollar grant to update and expand the Delaware Airpark.
 
This project is Phase XI of an ongoing multi-year project to expand the airport by constructing a new runway, its parallel taxiway, connector taxiways and apron system. It will include site preparation, environmental mitigation and construction of a new airport perimeter road.
 
“Today’s grant award announcement to expand the Delaware Airpark is a win-win for Kent County,” Sen. Carper said. “The improvements will not only create jobs, but it will provide a better training facility for students at DSU, and services to the Department of the Interior and NASA. This is a great example of the federal government creating a nurturing environment for job growth and job training on the local level.”
 
“We must continue to invest in America’s infrastructure,” said Sen. Coons. “Investing in our roads, bridges, highways and our airports lead to economic opportunities. As Delaware Airpark continues to develop, it means more job opportunities and but significant improvements for the aviation students at Delaware State University and commercial entities who utilize the airport.” 
 
“My most important role in Congress is finding ways to put Delawareans back to work, and proper funding and updates to our infrastructure makes that job a lot easier,” said Congressman Carney. “A runway extension at Delaware Airpark helps the airport compete for business regionally, enhances Delaware State University’s pilot training courses, and puts Kent County in a better position to take advantage of economic opportunities.  It’s a good project for Kent and all of Delaware.”
 
Delaware Airpark serves the general aviation needs of central Delaware and Dover, and is the home of the Delaware State University Aviation Program.  
 
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