No. PNR03/11
For release - October 11, 2011
WINNIPEG, MANITOBA — The Honourable Steven Fletcher, Minister of State (Transport), announced today the completion of an $8,670,350 project funded by the Airports Capital Assistance Program (ACAP) for the partial rehabilitation of Runway 06-24 at the Thompson Airport.
"Our government is committed to the safety and security of all Canadians, and continues to invest in airport safety by assisting regional and local airports with safety-related capital projects," said Minister Fletcher. "We recognize that efficient and safe airports are vital to the local economies of smaller communities."
This year, the Government of Canada is investing more than $20.9 million for 27 projects at 23 airports. Improvements include replacing snowblowers and runway sweepers; purchasing runway de-icing and fire-fighting equipment; and rehabilitating runway pavements.
"The improvements to the Thompson Regional Airport by the Thompson Regional Airport Authority and supported with the financial assistance of the Government of Canada, will contribute greatly to enhancing Thompson as the service and distribution centre for northern Manitoba and beyond," said Tim Johnston, Mayor of Thompson.
"The Thompson Regional Airport Authority (TRAA) is very appreciative of the cooperation and funding that we have received from the Federal Government for our project. Our new runway validates the importance of the Airports Capital Assistance Program (ACAP). With the assistance of ACAP, our regional airport continues to be safe and economically diverse," said Curtis Ross, CEO/President of the Authority.
To date, through ACAP, the Government of Canada has invested a total of $556 million for 678 projects at 171 airports, including today's announcement. Over 99 per cent of these projects were airside safety-related projects such as runways, taxiways and visual aids, as well as heavy airside mobile equipment such as fire trucks and snowplows.
Brayden Akers
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Steven Fletcher
Minister of State (Transport), Ottawa
613-949-8624
Media Relations
Transport Canada, Ottawa
613-993-0055
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