Two airports in the southeast corner of the province have received funding through the Community Airport Partnership (CAP) program, which will enhance infrastructure at community and regionally-owned airports.
Carlyle’s airport will receive $68,252 to widen the taxiway and the overrun at the east end of the runway, and expand the existing apron area. Carlyle has received $360,868 through CAP over the last 10 years.
Oxbow’s airport will get $18,500 to purchase land and extend the runway. This is the first time Oxbow has been approved for funding through CAP.
“We are pleased to partner with communities across the province in improving their airport infrastructure,” Highways and Infrastructure Minister Nancy Heppner said. “Community airports provide an important service, supporting tourism, agriculture, health-care delivery and law enforcement.”
CAP Program funding eligibility is reviewed by a committee comprised of representatives from the Saskatchewan Aviation Council, the Regina and Saskatoon Airport Authorities and the Ministry of Highways and Infrastructure.
CAP grants are cost-shared on a 50/50 basis up to a maximum amount, resulting in more than $1.4 million in investments this year.
“The returns on the CAP Program are felt throughout the aviation industry,” Saskatchewan Aviation Council president Janet Keim said. “Not only will a mile of runway get you the world, but it will bring the world to us.”
Airports in Biggar, Kindersley, North Battleford, Outlook, Swift Current, Tisdale, Unity, Weyburn and the Rural Municipality of Eye Hill also received funding for their airports through the CAP program.
To qualify for funding, airports must support economic development, accessibility and safety.
The government has invested $5.7 million in 36 locally-owned airports through the CAP program since 2007.
