During their meeting on Wednesday morning, the Monroe County commissioners approved a county match for a project at the Pocono Mountains Regional Airport.

The amount is $32,755, which is a 5% match of the North Apron Pavement Rehabilitation Agreement, and $40,000 for an entrance road paving and parking expansion project.

The funds are being covered through the Hotel Tax, said John Christy, the chairman of the commissioners.

Commissioner Sharon Laverdure said she’s not sure if the public realizes the importance of the airport.

“It’s highly used on a regular basis, and over the years has just grown,” Laverdure said. “That’s why it’s important to keep it up and keep expanding like they are.”

Laverdure said the airport enables small planes to land and take off, bringing visitors to the Pocono region. That’s why the Pocono Mountain Visitors Bureau also is matching some of the money for the pavement rehabilitation.

Laverdure also commented that she “had the privilege on Saturday evening to attend the 80th year celebration of Shawnee Fire Company.” She said she plans to recognize the fire company during a commissioners meeting in March and present them with a certificate.

“We are very fortunate to have not just Shawnee, but other fire companies throughout the community and EMTs,” Laverdure said.

She thinks it is important to talk about volunteerism, because so many emergency departments are having a difficult time getting enough volunteers.