Grayson Announces $2 Million Grant for Kissimmee Gateway Airport
Funds Will Rehabilitate Airport’s Aging Runways
(WASHINGTON, D.C.) – Congressman Alan Grayson (FL-09) announced today that Kissimmee Gateway Airport will receive more than $2 million in funds to rehabilitate its aging runways, thanks to a Department of Transportation (DOT) grant.
Terry Lloyd, Director of Aviation at Kissimmee Gateway Airport, explained that the DOT grant will allow the airport to begin a much-needed infrastructure improvement project. Parts of the airport’s runways date back to the facility’s time as a World War II Army Air Force training base, and have been used for many years beyond their intended life. The airport will also shrink its runway width by 33%, eliminating the need for future resurfacing of more than five acres of pavement that was originally required for military purposes. Existing runway lights will also be replaced with more efficient LED light fixtures, saving time and material costs thanks to their longer life cycle.
“I am very appreciative of the efforts of our engineering consultants, Avcon, Inc. of Orlando, the Federal Aviation Administration Orlando Airports Office, Florida Department of Transportation, and Congressman Grayson and his staff for all the hard work involved with developing and funding this project, which will help us to continue to provide safe and efficient airport facilities for the economic benefit of our community,” said Lloyd.
Congressman Grayson said he was thrilled about the airport’s $2 million grant, and also highlighted the facility’s value to the entire Central Florida area. “I am extremely pleased that Kissimmee Gateway Airport will receive funds to invest in this critical infrastructure project,” he explained. “This airport provides support for operations and overflow at the Orlando International Airport, one of the world’s busiest airports. It facilitates 3,000 to 4,000 business flights annually as a result of its proximity to the Orange County Convention Center, the second largest convention venue in the nation.Kissimmee Gateway Airport also hosts military aviation traffic and medical evacuation helicopters that serve as first responders for the attractions area. These funds will allow the facility to continue serving the Greater Orlando community.”
Congressman Alan Grayson represents Florida’s 9th Congressional District, which includes Osceola County, as well as parts of Orange and Polk counties. He previously served as the U.S. Representative for Florida's 8th Congressional District in the 111th Congress.
