Rep. Bresnahan announces grants for Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport

WILKES-BARRE — In announcing two federal grants for the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport on Friday, U.S. Rep. Rob Bresnahan Jr. said the investments mark a significant win for Northeast Pennsylvania.

Bresnahan, R-Dallas Township, said the airport has been awarded two federal grants in the amounts of $334,524 and $241,300 from the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Federal Aviation Administration. Both grants are part of the FY 2025 Airport Infrastructure Grant program.

“By funding vital infrastructure projects, we are bringing taxpayer dollars home and laying the groundwork for long-term improvements at the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton International Airport,” Bresnahan said. “Modern, well-maintained facilities not only enhance air travel, but also strengthen the region’s economy and connectivity.”

Carl Beardsley, the airport’s executive director, said, “These grants give us the opportunity to rehab existing pavements and enhance parking and gate facilities used by our airlines. It’s an honor to work with Congressman Bresnahan to continue improving our airport for the entire Northeast Pennsylvania region.”

Beardsley said the first grant, in the amount of $334,524, funds the final phase of extending the existing Taxiway B by an additional 1,200 feet. He said completing this project brings the airport into conformity with current standards.

The second grant, in the amount of $241,300, will support the first phase of the airport’s structural integrity initiative — rehabilitating of 55,176 square yards of the existing airline apron pavement.

Beardsley said this work is essential for maintaining the structural integrity and operational safety of the airport’s apron area, which supports the loading, unloading, refueling and maintenance of aircraft.

AVP serves more than 235,000 travelers each year and is a key economic engine for the region. These grants will support continued growth and safe operations at the airport, ensuring it can meet the demands of passengers and commercial carriers alike.

Rep. Bresnahan serves on the House Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure and sits on the Subcommittees on Aviation and Highways and Transit, of which he is the Vice Chair.