Local airports get millions

PORTAGE TWP. — The Erie-Ottawa International Airport, near Port Clinton, landed millions of dollars in federal money to expand its capacity. Another local airport, Middle Bass Island Airport, also received funding. The Federal Aviation Administration awarded Erie-Ottawa a little under $6.4 million to expand the airport's Southwest Apron by 25,200 square yards, giving the airport greater capacity. The apron is where airplanes are parked and loaded. Officials at Erie-Ottawa said it is the largest airport between Cleveland and Toledo. Located 3.5 miles east of Port Clinton, it has crossing runways of about 5,600 fee. and 4,000 feet, which can handle a variety of private planes, including big business jets. The airport also serves as the location of the Liberty Aviation Museum, a local tourist attraction. "This will be the largest project in the airport's history outside of constructing the runways," said Clay Finken, director of the Erie-Ottawa International Airport. "We are grateful for our partners at the local, state and federal level who recognize the airport as a valuable asset to the region, and who are willing to continue vital investment in airport infrastructure," The airport is a "critical lifeline" for Lake Erie islands and also draws traffic because the local area is a popular destination, Finken said. One of those islands also got a grant. Middle Bass Island Airport is getting about $551,000 for fencing and gates, improving airport safety. Toledo's airport also got grant money — about $169,000 — to buy two electric pickup trucks and install charging stations. U.S. Rep. Marcy Kaptur, D-Toledo, a member of the House Appropriations Committee, announced the grants. "From families traveling for the first time to local businesses reaching new markets, our airports are vital lifelines for our communities," Kaptur said. "These investments will enhance safety, improve infrastructure, and expand capacity at airports throughout our region, ensuring they can meet the demands of today and the challenges of tomorrow."