The Pennsylvania Department of Transportation announced a nearly $10 million state investment in projects at 10 public use airports for facility improvements, infrastructure preservation, and development.

Pennsylvania’s aviation industry employs over 226,000 people, provides nearly $12.5 billion in payroll and employment benefits, and has a $34 billion annual economic impact. In addition to providing travel options, airports also facilitate services such as air cargo and freight, police and law enforcement, emergency medical services, firefighting, and disaster and emergency response.

“Pennsylvania’s aviation industry provides good-paying jobs while linking communities to a larger transportation system that moves goods and people around the world,” said PennDOT Secretary Mike Carroll.

Airports receiving funding include:

• Reading Regional/Carl A. Spaatz Field Airport – $1.5 million of state funds to construct a hangar and office building for the fixed based operator at the airport.

• Braden Airpark in Northampton County, $975,000 of state funds to replace approach runway lighting and edge lighting.

• Schuylkill County/Joe Zerby Airport – $700,000 of state funds to repair and upgrade the terminal building along with adding an office for a flight school.

The projects will be funded by the state Capital Budget through the Aviation Transportation Assistance Program, which is supported by bonds.