SRQ Airport to receive $9 million in grants

Sarasota-Bradenton International Airport moves closer to construction of a new air traffic control tower, as the Federal Aviation Authority will provide grant funding to help with the project.

The FAA has awarded SRQ Airport with $9.1 million in grants for the 2014 fiscal year, according to a news release. The money will go toward the new tower, for which the Florida Department of Transportation is also providing funding, as well as terminal renovations, airfield taxi lanes and an expansion of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Federal Inspection services facility.

“We are extremely pleased that the FAA acknowledges the value of the proposed partnership between SRQ and the FDOT and we look forward to completing the new ATC tower which will enhance the safety and efficiency of our airfield,” said SRQ Airport President and CEO Rick Piccolo said in the release.