MARQUETTE — U.S. Department of Transportation Secretary Elaine L. Chao announced today that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) will award the Sawyer International Airport in Gwinn $678,150 to purchase new snow removal equipment in order to continue flights despite harsh winter weather. State Rep. Sara Cambensy (D-Marquette) applauded the announcement, noting the important role the airport plays in keeping businesses in the Upper Peninsula operational year-round.

“Marquette County Board members, County Administrator Scott Erbisch and Sawyer International Airport Director Steve Schenden and staff deserve to be recognized for their continual advocacy to garner federal and state grant dollars for the region’s largest airport, which is vital to the U.P.,” said Cambensy. “These federal dollars are critical to help improve Sawyer’s massive infrastructure footprint and offer continued services for numerous regional businesses that provide sustainable jobs to residents. Their efforts are noted and greatly appreciated.”

The grant comes from the FAA’s Airport Improvement Program to support the planning and development of public-use airports across the country.

###