Owens Announces Airport Security, Hazard Funding

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Bill Owens has announced funding for Richards Field at Massena International Airport to improve security concerns and wildlife hazard management.

"Our airport in Massena is a tremendous driver of our local economy," said Owens. "By improving safety concerns at the airport, we protect both our passengers and area economic development as well."

The U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) provided $95,000 to Massena International for security fence rehabilitation at Richards Field.

The FAA also awarded $85,000 to the airport to conduct a wildlife hazard assessment in order to identify the wildlife species observed, assess their numbers, locations and activities.

"The town of Massena is pleased to receive financial assistance to improve our airport. Sometimes we think Washington forgets about us up here in the North Country; however, this is a fine example of the Federal government lending a hand to localities," Massena Town Supervisor Joseph Gray said.