Governor Kelly Announces Over $2.6M for Airport Infrastructure

Posted January 21, 2026

Topeka–Governor Laura Kelly today announced ten Kansas communities have secured over $2.5 million in federal Infrastructure and Investment Jobs Act (IIJA) funding from the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Infrastructure Grant (AIG) program.  

“Investing in Kansas’ airport infrastructure is crucial to enhancing connectivity and supporting local economies across the state,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “I’m pleased that these projects are receiving vital infrastructure grants, which will not only improve our airports but also strengthen the entire state’s transportation network.” 

Combined with just over $145,000 in matching funds from the Kansas Infrastructure Hub and Build Kansas Fund and over $22,000 in local contributions, the total investment into airport infrastructure in Kansas through this round of grants is more than $2.6 million. 

“The City of Chanute has been planning funding for over three years to rehabilitate our runway and taxiway pavements. With most of our local matching funds dedicated to Runway 18-36, the availability of Build Kansas Funds allowed us to take advantage of additional federal funds and complete taxiway repairs in the same year,” said Ryan Follmer, Chanute Assistant City Manager. “Completing these repairs now will extend the life of our taxiway by 10-15 years, eliminate the need for costly reconstruction, and maintain aircraft operations.”  

The Kansas area airport projects receiving funding are: 

  • Hugoton Airport – Improvements to Runway, Taxiway, Lighting, Signage, and Electrical
    • Build Kansas Funding – $34,673
    • Federal Funding Awarded – $328,482 
    • Applicant Contribution – $1,825 
    • Total Project – $364,980 
  • Kearny County – Electrical Vault and Beacon Installation 
    • Build Kansas Funding – $15,785 
    • Federal Funding Awarded – $315,713 
    • Applicant Contribution – $831 
    • Total Project – $332,329

In addition to these ten awards for airport infrastructure, the Build Kansas Fund has provided the required match dollars for 79 other federal grant awards across Kansas. The combined total investment by the Build Kansas Fund in all projects across the state is over $47.7 million, which has resulted in federal grant awards of more than $153.4 million.  

The Kansas Infrastructure Hub connects multiple state agencies and serves as a resource center for Kansas communities to identify best practices for maximizing IIJA funding opportunities. The Build Kansas Fund provides state matching dollars for projects throughout Kansas that successfully apply for federal grants under IIJA.  

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