Airports in Fryeburg, Pittsfield and Presque Isle among those slated for upgrades

Runway rehabs and new hangars are part of a slew of projects at 11 airports slated to receive a total of $4,201,355 to support important infrastructure improvements.

“Maine’s airports are vital pieces of our state’s transportation network that promote job creation and economic development,” said U.S. Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine. “Throughout our state, airports play a critical role not only in carrying residents and visitors, but also in facilitating medical services for those in rural communities during emergencies when seconds count.”

The investments are much-needed and will improve safety and efficiency of operations, she added.

The money comes from the Federal Aviation Administration’s Fiscal Year 2025 Airport Infrastructure Grants program.  

Projects

• Auburn Lewiston Municipal Airport:$1.163 million to support multiple improvements including construction of a 11,800-square-foot hangar for aircraft storage, a general aviation apron, and a 900-foot hangar taxilane to improve airfield access and bring the airport in alignment with current aviation standards.
• Eastern Slope Regional Airport in Fryeburg: $416,385 to update the airport’s master plan. 
• Pittsfield Municipal Airport: $268,294 to acquire a snowplow attachment and reseal 4,003 feet of runway pavement.
• Dewitt Field/Old Town Municipal Airport: $245,044 to reimburse the airport for construction of a portion of a new 9,000-square-foot hangar completed in 2020 that is helping the airport generate additional revenue.
• Sugarloaf Regional Airport in Carrabassett: $237,500 to design rehabilitation plans for 2,797 feet of runway.
• Augusta State Airport: $213,750 to reconstruct airfield markings that have reached the end of their useful lives.
• Princeton Municipal Airport: $183,350 to design a 4,225-square-foot hangar to support increased aviation activity.
• Stephen A. Bean Municipal Airport in Rangeley: $150,000 to reconstruct 3,444 square yards of terminal apron and construct 750-foot taxi Lanes to improve airfield access.
• Northern Aroostook Regional Airport in Frenchville: $118,720 to acquire snow removal equipment, including a snow blower and plow blade, to improve winter operations.
• Presque Isle International Airport: $115,615 to acquire and install upgraded security equipment in accordance with federal regulations.
• Lincoln Regional Airport: $89,697 to acquire 0.7 acres of land, including an on-property building, for future development.