ELMIRA, N.Y. (WHCU) – Elmira-Corning Regional Airport will be a beneficiary of federal funding.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Senator Kirsten Gillibrand have announced more than $27 million dollars is heading to 13 airports in New York through the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Improvement Program.

“From the North Country to the Hudson Valley to Western NY, air travel is vital to the connectivity and success of the Upstate economy, and it is critical that we provide the necessary funding to give our local airports the lift they need to fly higher than ever before,” said Senator Schumer. “I’m proud to deliver this funding that will help much-needed improvements to boost air travel safety and quality for Upstate airports, and I will keep fighting to ensure that communities in every corner of New York State have the funding and resources they need to thrive and soar to new heights.”

Elmira-Corning is receiving more than $4 million to reconstruct the area near the terminals where planes are parked and boarded. It was the second-highest award in the state.

“New York’s airports welcome millions of travelers each year and play a crucial role in facilitating tourism and spurring economic growth,” said Senator Gillibrand. “There are necessary improvements that must happen in order to ensure that travelers have the modern facilities they deserve. I am excited to announce this funding and will continue fighting to bring vital modernization and improvements to airports across New York State.”