ITHACA, NY (CortacaToday) – Funding is coming to Ithaca Tompkins International Airport (ITH).

ITH is awarded nearly $2.7 million through the Federal Aviation Administration’s Airport Improvement Program. The funding was announced on Wednesday by Senators Chuck Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand.

“I fought hard to bolster the Airport Improvement Program in the FAA reauthorization this past year because I know this program is the main federal lifeline for these airports and today’s investment will help our local economies take off,” said Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer.

The bulk of the money, $2,090,070, is slated for a new aircraft rescue and firefighting vehicle.  A little less than $600,000 is going to taxiway rehabilitation and construction, and new runway signage and lighting.

It’s part of $59.1 million heading to 26 airports across the state.

“New York’s airports welcome millions of travelers each year, and it is vital that they have up-to-date infrastructure needed for passengers and travel safety,” said Senator Kirsten Gillibrand. “I am excited to announce this funding and will continue fighting to bring vital modernization efforts and improvements to airports across New York State.”

The Greater Binghamton Airport and Elmira Corning Regional Airport join ITH as winners in the Southern Tier.