April 20, 2023 11:30 a.m. 

Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley have announced that two rural Oregon airports will receive a combined more than $288,000 from the U.S. Department of Transportation for crucial runway improvements.

Wyden said, “Small airports in rural areas help drive our state’s economy”. Wyden said, “I am gratified to see these dollars go toward crucial runway infrastructure to allow for safer and more regular airport service”. Wyden said investing in airport infrastructure lays the groundwork for airports in Benton and Morrow counties to continue to support the state’s economy moving forward.

Merkley said, “Whether flying for recreation, business, or agricultural operations, having access to safe and reliable airport infrastructure is vital to drive Oregon’s economy”. Merkley said the federal investments to support critical runway infrastructure at the Corvallis Municipal Airport and the Morrow County Lexington Airport will allow these hubs to continue to support local businesses and economies for years to come.

Corvallis Municipal Airport will receive $65,500 in Airport Infrastructure Grant funds to support the design phase of sealing two taxiways. The City of Lexington in Morrow County will receive $223,000 in Airport Infrastructure Grants to support reconstruction of Taxiway D and reconstruction of the southeast apron pavement.