May 14, 2021

Wyden, Merkley: Eugene Airport to Receive $5.5 Million Federal Grant

Department of Transportation resources will help Mahlon Sweet Field with runway, lighting and taxiway improvements

Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkley today announced that the city of Eugene will receive a $5.5 million federal grant to help rebuild the runway as well as make lighting and taxiway improvements at Mahlon Sweet Field.

“Eugene’s airport plays a huge role for Oregonians needing convenient travel options, and for local businesses as well as the U-of-O and OSU welcoming visitors from around the globe,” Wyden said. “I’m gratified these federal resources are heading to Mahlon Sweet Field because infrastructure investment is a must to maintain and improve airports like this one so they can be linchpins to build both a stronger economy and even better quality of life.”

“One of the most important things we can do to rebuild and recover in the wake of the coronavirus crisis is to invest in the infrastructure we need to keep Oregonians connected with their families and loved ones, and our businesses with their customers,” Merkley said. “I’m pleased that this funding is coming to Mahlon Sweet Field, where it will help us achieve that goal, and will continue to do all that I can to secure the investments our communities and economy need to create strong foundations for the future.”

The $5.52 million grant is from the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT).

“I am thrilled the Eugene Airport will be receiving this much needed federal funding as an investment in critical infrastructure,” said Eugene Mayor Lucy Vinis. “In championing ongoing improvements to our local airport, our Congressional Delegation is sending a clear message that they value the contribution the Eugene Airport provides to our region’s economic recovery.”

“DOT resources for this summer’s airfield construction project are again funded 100 percent from federal dollars, providing critical support for the Eugene Airport as we recover from the severe financial impacts of the past year,” said Acting Airport Director Cathryn Stephens, A.A.E. “We are grateful for the continued support from our Congressional Delegation which will play a key role in emerging from the pandemic even stronger than before.”