Newton airport secures $1.5M for East West Runway repairs and upgrades

In a recent meeting of the Kansas Legislature, discussions centered around vital infrastructure improvements at local airports, highlighting the importance of federal and state funding in enhancing aviation safety and efficiency. Under the bright lights of the legislative chamber, members reviewed a significant project aimed at upgrading the East West Runway at the Newton Airport.

The proposed project, which has garnered attention for its potential impact, involves essential repairs including patching and addressing cracks on the smaller East West Runway, designated as Runway 826. This runway, while appearing modest at 3,500 feet, plays a crucial role in the airport's operations. The total cost for the project is estimated at $1,540,000, with a federal match of $1,463,000 and a local contribution of $3,850. The Build Kansas Fund request stands at $73,150, representing a strategic investment in the region's aviation infrastructure.

The committee noted that the project had already received approval from the steering committee on April 9, paving the way for final discussions. Future plans for the runway include upgrading it to an instrument approach, which would enhance its usability and safety for pilots.

In addition to the Newton project, the meeting also addressed an adjustment request from Stevens County regarding the Hugoton Municipal Airport. The county sought to revise its local contribution and increase the Build Kansas Fund amount due to a miscalculation in their initial proposal. The committee clarified that the local contribution should reflect 5% of the project match amount, leading to a revised local contribution of just $18.25.

As the meeting concluded, the committee members expressed their commitment to supporting these vital projects, recognizing the role of well-maintained airports in fostering economic growth and ensuring public safety. With these initiatives, Kansas continues to invest in its infrastructure, laying the groundwork for a more robust aviation network.