The Government of Canada is investing more than $23.5 million in airport infrastructure across British Columbia, including nearly $3.8 million for the Prince Rupert Airport.
Minister of Transport Steven MacKinnon made the announcement Thursday via Transport Canada’s Airports Capital Assistance Program.
Prince Rupert Airport will be awarded $3,756,600 for rehabilitation of its airfield lighting system.
These efforts form part of a bigger project geared towards six airports in the province, with funding also allocated for Masset, Smithers, Bella Coola, Fort Nelson and Kamloops.
The Canadian Government claims that the projects will enhance safety and reliability at the airports while helping replace aging infrastructure.
For Prince Rupert, the airfield lighting rehabilitation is expected to support the airport’s continued ability to provide safe and reliable air transportation for passengers, air operators and the surrounding region.
Prince Rupert Airport Authority Board of Directors President Antonio Vera says the funding is critical to the airport’s future.
“This investment from Transport Canada is critical to the continued operation and future growth of our airport,” Vera said. “Without this funding, we would be unable to make the necessary improvements needed to support our community’s economic development and its role within the national economy.”
WSP in Canada is also involved in the project. Peter Hatcher, Executive Vice President of Western Canada and Territories, says the project will help modernize the airport’s airfield infrastructure.
“We are honoured to work alongside Prince Rupert Airport Authority, the City, and Transport Canada on this important project. Through thoughtful planning and design, our team is helping deliver modern airfield infrastructure that strengthens airport operations, improves safety, and supports the long-term connectivity of Northern British Columbia.”
The Airports Capital Assistance Program provides federal funding for eligible capital projects at local and regional airports, including runway and taxiway rehabilitation, airfield lighting and electrical systems, drainage improvements and other safety-related infrastructure.
Since the program launched in 1995, the federal government says it has committed more than $1.3 billion toward 1,288 projects at 201 local and regional airports across Canada.
