What will Atlantic City International Airport do with millions in federal funding?
EGG HARBOR TWP. – An infusion of federal funds will support improvements for civilian and military aviation operations in and around Atlantic City International Airport, authorities say.
The earmarks include $3 million for initial work toward a planned cargo terminal and more than $2 million toward the development of self-driving vehicles for airport use.
In addition, $8.1 million will bolster security and maintenance facilities at the nearby base of the Air National Guard’s 177th Fighter Wing.
“On their own, each of these funding awards is a huge win,” U.S. Senator Bob Menendez said at an airport press conference on Monday.
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Cargo terminal moves toward take-off
The federal funds will cover costs for planning and design of a taxiway for use by a proposed cargo terminal.
No construction schedule has been set for the $18 million terminal.
The 75,000-square-foot structure could process nearly 9,000 tons of cargo each month, noted Stephen Dougherty, executive director for the airport’s operator, the South Jersey Transportation Authority.
“There has been a growing trend in the cargo industry where freight forwarders are increasingly looking to smaller, less congested airports to move their products more cheaply, quickly and reliably,” Dougherty said.
“We truly believe that once these facilities are constructed here, we're positioned for exponential growth.”
Research into self-driving cars
One of the airport’s neighbors, the National Aerospace Research and Technology Park, received funding to develop “autonomous vehicles” that would operate “on and around an airfield environment,” according to a statement from Menendez’ office.
The project, expected to create about 25 jobs, will focus on automated lawn mowing, debris sweeping and perimeter patrol, the statement said.
The mechanical workforce will help overcome personnel shortages for both civilian and military operators, said Howard Kyle, NARTP’s president and CEO.
More protection for the Air National Guard
The Air National Guard is expected to spend $5.1 million to bolster security at its main gate. Changes will include a new gatehouse, covered canopies for vehicle inspection, active vehicle barriers and a security gate.
The base also is receiving $3 million to build a hangar for the maintenance of F-16 fighter jets.
Jim Walsh is a senior reporter with the Courier-Post, Burlington County Times and The Daily Journal.
This article originally appeared on Cherry Hill Courier-Post: Sen. Robert Menendez Jr.: ACY federal funds a 'huge win'
