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Vancouver Island airports get funding boost

Two Vancouver Island airports will split just over $590,000 in new funding from the B.C. Air Access Program to cover upgrades and safety equipment. The grants, part of $9.
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Cox Bay near Tofino.

Two Vancouver Island airports will split just over $590,000 in new funding from the B.C. Air Access Program to cover upgrades and safety equipment.

The grants, part of $9.28 million funding announcement to enhance 27 airports in the province as part of the government’s COVID economic recovery plan, will be split by the Courtenay Airpark and Tofino’s Long Beach Airport.

Long Beach Airport will receive $431,025 for a fire protection improvement project, while the airpark will get $159,446 to pay for asphalt repairs on its runway, ramp and float plane ramp.

“We know the pandemic has caused financial stress for many industries and significantly impacted our aviation sector throughout B.C., including our community airports,” said Transportation Minister Rob Fleming. “But we’re also looking to better days ahead, post-pandemic. That’s why we’re taking action to support communities with important infrastructure upgrades so we can boost jobs, tourism and trade that will give us a head start with B.C.’s economic recovery.”

The province has more than 300 public airports, heliports and water aerodromes that can access funding to improve airport infrastructure through the program. Applications are assessed on need, safety, environmental improvements and essential access.

“Our regional airports keep us interconnected, and supporting these facilities helps our communities to thrive, especially at a time when we are all facing so many challenges,” said John Jack, chair of the Alberni-Clayoquot Regional District.