GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — The Gerald R. Ford International Airport is celebrating the completion of a new expansion that will store snow removal equipment. Airport officials say this will allow the airport to keep travel safe during snowy conditions by keeping their equipment in good condition.
The building is now 117,500 square feet, with the expansion project adding an additional 60,000 square feet. The airport's fleet of over 45 snow removal vehicles, including specialized snow plows that can quickly clear runways, will soon be consolidated inside the building.
“Today marks a major milestone in our ongoing commitment to operational excellence and safety," said Gerald R. Ford International Airport Authority President and CEO Tory Richardson. “This expanded facility further equips our Airfield Maintenance team with the resources needed to keep our runways clear and operational in winter conditions, enhancing our ability to provide world-class service to our guests and community.”
Officials say the building will keep equipment protected from the elements, and therefore extend the operational lifespan.
The expansion cost $8.5 million, with some of that funding coming from the Federal Aviation Administration’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law. The law authorized the use of $108 billion for public transportation in the U.S.
“West Michiganders are no strangers to snow, and when it coats our runways, it’s not just inconvenient, it’s dangerous,” said Congresswoman Hillary Scholten. “As more flights take off from Gerald R. Ford International Airport, we need reliable snow removal equipment – and you can’t have reliable equipment without protecting it against the elements."
Airport officials say the project supported 130 trade jobs.
