The highlighted area is Taxiway U, marked for improvement by the FAA Grant (image courtesy Google Maps)
Columbia, SC (WLTX) -- The FAA has granted Columbia Metropolitan Airport a grant of $8.2 million dollars as a part of the FAA Airport Improvement Program, a $3.3 billion dollar annual fund to improve airports nation wide.
"This funding will help improve Columbia Metropolitan Airport's infrastructure and will keep aircraft moving safely and efficiently through South Carolina," U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood said. "Making important investments in our aviation system promotes safety and economic growth in communities across the country."
The grant will fund the widening of Taxiway U, which will allow it to better serve the aircraft that now use the airport.
The taxiway is located on the east side of the airport. (see highlighted section on map)
The project will enhance safety by enabling aircraft to access Runway 29 and the East Cargo Apron without having to cross Runway 05/23.
The project will also include simplifying the taxiway's markings. Construction is expected to begin in October 2012 and take six months to complete.