Lethbridge Airport receives $7.3M for improvements from feds

The provincial government announced $11 million for upgrades to lighting and pavement rehabilitation in December 2020. On Wednesday, the federal government announced $7,379,719 to upgrade and rehabilitate the airport pavement.

Mayor Chris Spearman, says the prioritization of the airport from both the provincial and federal governments is encouraging.

“This investment helps to ensure our airport remains a priority for our community, not only for the convenience of residents but also for the advancement of our economic landscape,” says Spearman. “The creation of a ‘Distribution Hub’ to support supply chain and logistics are key to robust local economy and these upgrades will strengthen our city’s portfolio when attracting business and development to southern Alberta.”

The ACAP is an existing contribution funding program that provides financial assistance to regional airports for safety-related capital infrastructure projects and equipment to help ensure the continued safe operation of the airports for passengers, aircrews, and employees.

“We know how vital airports are to urban centres and remote communities,” says Jim Carr, Minister and Special Representative for the Prairies. “The investment our government is making will help ensure continued safe and reliable airport operations for residents, many of whom depend on their local airports not only for personal travel and business but also for community resupply of essential goods and access to routine and emergency medical care in larger centres. This is part of how we build stronger more resilient and inclusive communities across Canada.”

Transport Canada allocated ACAP funding to 63 airports, with a total of 86 ACAP projects for 2021-2022.

These projects include runway and taxiway repairs, new lighting, new snow clearing equipment, firefighting vehicles, and installing wildlife fencing.

“Our Government recognizes that airports are major contributors to the economic growth and social well-being of smaller communities and local airport workers,” says Omar Alghabra, Minister of Transport.

“In addition to supporting personal travel, local airports are key connectors for business, health care, social services, and emerging resource development sectors. These investments will improve access to safe, reliable, and efficient air transportation options, and will help us deliver our promise to build safer, healthier, and stronger communities across Canada. This is more important than ever as we work towards reopening our economies affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.”

Construction and renovations at the airport are expected to start this summer.

Spearman says investing in the airport means the city is investing in the ability to grow economically and be a leader in the region.

“The ‘Distribution Hub’ will create opportunities for future development and renovating this facility as a major economic driver for southern Alberta are exciting and we’re thrilled to be moving forward on these improvements.”

Also in southern Alberta, the Medicine Hat Regional Airport received just over $950,000 for rehabilitation of the airfield electrical system.

by Karsen Marczuk

Lethbridge Airport receives $7.3M for improvements from feds

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