NE Florida News

U.S. Congressman Aaron Bean (FL-04) has announced over $2.2 million in federal funding to aid the Fernandina Beach Municipal Airport in rehabilitating its taxiway and upgrading taxiway lighting. The grant, awarded through the Federal Aviation Administration’s (FAA) Airport Improvement Program, aims to enhance the airport's infrastructure to meet operational needs and extend the lifespan of its taxiway.

“The Fernandina Beach Municipal Airport is an essential hub of our economy, helping people and goods get where they need to go when they need to get there. That’s why I was proud to help secure this federal funding to ensure this airport can continue to serve Northeast Florida businesses, residents, and our tourism industry safely and efficiently,” said Congressman Bean. “As a member of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, I’ll continue to be a champion for important transportation investments to ensure Florida’s Fourth District airports have the resources they need to thrive.”

Interim City Manager of Fernandina Beach Jeremiah Glisson expressed gratitude for the FAA grant: “We are extremely grateful to receive this FAA grant, which will provide crucial funding for our $2.2 million taxiway upgrade project. This initiative is vital for ensuring the continued safety and efficiency of our airport operations, enabling us to better accommodate current air traffic and support future growth. We are pleased to announce that the project has already gone out for bid and is scheduled to begin construction within the coming months. This milestone reflects our commitment to improving airport infrastructure and serving our community. We extend our sincere thanks to our state and federal partners for their continued support.”

The Fernandina Beach Municipal Airport (FBMA), located on Amelia Island approximately three miles south of downtown historic Fernandina Beach and less than two miles from Amelia Island's beaches, hotels, B&Bs, vacation rentals, and resort accommodations, also offers convenient access to Jacksonville, Florida.

Specifically, FBMA is receiving one grant totaling $2,233,234. The funds will be used not only for upgrading existing lighting on Taxiway A but also for rehabilitating 3,500 feet of paved Taxiway A to maintain its structural integrity.