MLA Jennifer Rice says funding for local airports will support services in North Coast
PRINCE RUPERT – New Democrat MLA Jennifer Rice says people and businesses will benefit from funding announced today for regional airport upgrades.
“Here on the North Coast, we require reliable air transit everyday. Whether it is for medical appointments, work or emergencies, investing in these upgrades is great news for everyone along the coast who rely on these services,” says Jennifer Rice, MLA for North Coast. “Although airports are federally regulated, we know support is needed for rural and Indigenous communities. That’s why we are investing in YPR’s security and communications systems and upgrading Metlakatla’s heliport not only to bolster access to healthcare but to catalyze economic growth and connectivity.”
In North Coast, the following airports are receiving funding:
- Prince Rupert Airport, communications system for operations and emergencies – $25,500
- Prince Rupert Airport, access control and terminal security – $35,000
- Metlakatla First Nation, emergency heliport upgrade – $567,000
Across the province, the New Democrat government is investing $11 million this year to support 26 projects at two dozen regional airports through the BC Air Access Program. The program is open to facilities that serve fewer than one million passengers per year.
Since 2017, the BC Air Access Program has provided more than $63 million in grants to support infrastructure improvement projects at 71 regional airports and air facilities.
Learn More: https://news.gov.bc.ca/30579